Cardiovascular workload

Definition

Cardiovascular workload is the effort required by the heart and blood vessels to maintain adequate circulation and oxygen delivery to tissues. It is influenced by factors such as heart rate, blood pressure, and vascular resistance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Increased cardiovascular workload can exacerbate pulmonary conditions by increasing the demand for oxygen.
2. Nutritional status directly impacts cardiovascular workload; malnutrition can weaken cardiac muscle function.
3. Obesity increases cardiovascular workload due to higher metabolic demands and increased blood volume.
4. Micronutrients such as magnesium and potassium play a crucial role in maintaining optimal cardiovascular function.
5. High sodium intake can elevate blood pressure, thereby increasing cardiovascular workload.

Review Questions

• How does obesity affect cardiovascular workload?
• Which micronutrients are pivotal in maintaining optimal cardiovascular function?
• What is the relationship between high sodium intake and cardiovascular workload?

Related terms

Cardiac Output: The volume of blood pumped by the heart per minute; crucial for determining cardiovascular workload.

Vascular Resistance: The resistance that must be overcome to push blood through the circulatory system; affects cardiovascular workload.

Pulmonary Hypertension: Increased blood pressure within the arteries of the lungs, which can impact overall cardiovascular workload.