Discussion:
Cardiovascular function and the effects of smoking
Address the following:
1. Starting with the right ventricle of the heart, describe the function of the heart and the movement of the blood through the pulmonary and systemic circuit. Include a description of gas exchange within the lungs.
2. Now consider what happens if Jake starts smoking. Discuss in detail how this will affect the heart and lungs. Think about how this habit might affect the homeostasis of the cardiovascular and respiratory system.
3. After many years of smoking, during a routine doctor's appointment, Jake is diagnosed with high blood pressure and early signs of emphysema. Explain the connection between his smoking habit and the diagnoses.
4. Also explain why the doctor wants to run more tests to look at Jake's coronary circuit.