Unit 3 Reflection

This whole unit was about the anatomy and physiology of the heart, the circulatory system, blood vessels, blood, cardiovascular disease, and the respiratory system. The cardiovascular system is a closed system and contains a network of fluid-filled tubes where material move in and out of cells and the environment. Its' main function is to transport material needed by cells and remove waste materials from cells. The main components are the heart, arteries, veins and blood. Cardiovascular health relates to the health of the heart and vessels. Heart disease and strokes are often times caused by atherosclerosis. This is when plaque or a blood clot blocks the blood vessel and leads to hypertension

Atherosclerosis in artery 

To promote my cardiovascular health, I can exercise on a regular basis, maintain a healthy weight and diet by cutting out excess sugars and polyunsaturated fats and control blood pressure and cholesterol. Something I wonder about is how come so many Americans still suffer from heart diseases even though there are so many healthy habits they can pick up to prevent these

diseases from happening.

As with the learning process this unit, it has been rather different. Learning the heart's anatomy and physiology is much easier than cardiovascular diseases. I have realized that visually learning the heart and how blood flows through it is easier. Drawing diagrams or just connecting images with words is an easier way to grasp a concept. Also, the heart dissection really helped me realize how the blood flow of the heart worked and it was easier to locate the different parts of the heart unlike just looking at an image online. The cardiovascular diseases are rather similar and more confusing and just requires more memorization. Another thing I learned about working in a collaborative setting is that you have to compromise everything to work well within a group. Even if half of the group may not benefit as much, one has to pull through and benefit the group as a whole. I am still slightly confused on how the nodal system works and the cardiac cycle.

Diagram of blood flowing through the heart

Looking back at my unit 2 goals, I have definitely cut my added sugar intake every day and am eating more natural sugars instead. Also, I have tried to exercise more each week although it has been rather difficult with college applications deadlines approaching soon. Another goal I have for the rest of this semester is to improve my time management. This way I won't be as stressed out and can sleep at a timely matter every night, unlike the past few weeks. From this class, I definitely have to improve on my assessments by reviewing and understanding each concept. This will help me in the future when I take anatomy & physiology in college and will have basic knowledge that will help me.