Bloodstream Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฉธ
bloodstream
[หblสd.striหm ]
Definition
circulatory system
The bloodstream refers to the flow of blood throughout the circulatory system in an organism. It is responsible for transporting oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products to and from cells. The bloodstream plays a critical role in maintaining homeostasis and overall bodily functions. Disturbances in the bloodstream can lead to various health issues, including cardiovascular diseases. Understanding how the bloodstream operates is essential for medical science and treatment.
Synonyms
blood flow, circulation, vascular system.
Examples of usage
- Oxygen is transported via the bloodstream.
- The medication entered his bloodstream quickly.
- High cholesterol affects the bloodstream.
- The bloodstream carries nutrients to vital organs.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- The average adult has about 5 liters of blood circulating in their bloodstream at any time.
- Red blood cells make up about 40-45% of blood volume and are responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.
- Bloodstream plays a crucial role in homeostasis, helping regulate temperature, pH, and electrolyte balance in the body.
Health
- Certain conditions, like diabetes or cardiovascular diseases, can affect how well the bloodstream functions, impacting overall health.
- Medical professionals use the term 'bloodstream infection' to describe serious infections where bacteria or fungi enter the blood, posing significant health risks.
Culture
- The concept of 'blood' has deep cultural significance; many cultures associate it with life and heritage, linking it symbolically to family and ancestry.
- In literature and movies, the bloodstream often symbolizes life force, with stories illustrating how the flow of blood can represent vitality or danger.
Psychology
- Research in psychophysiology investigates how stress and emotions can affect the bloodstream, influencing physical health.
- Studies show that positive mental states can improve various factors in the bloodstream, potentially enhancing the immune response.
Origin of 'bloodstream'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'bloodstream' combines 'blood,' from Old English 'blลd,' meaning the red liquid, and 'stream,' which means a flowing body of water, reflecting its movement in the body.
- The term 'bloodstream' began to be used in the early 19th century as our understanding of the circulatory system advanced.
The word 'bloodstream' is formed from two Old English words: 'blood,' which has roots in the Proto-Germanic word '*blลรฐ', and 'stream', which comes from the Proto-Germanic '*straumaz', meaning a body of flowing water. The term evolved to describe the continuous flow of blood within the body, becoming widely used in medical language by the 20th century. It signifies not just the physical movement of blood, but also the dynamic nature of life processes, as blood carries essential substances required for cellular function and removes waste. The increasing understanding of the cardiovascular system during the Renaissance and later scientific revolutions solidified the term's importance in health and biology.