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Understanding Circulation

Blood flows from the heart to the body and back to the heart. This nonstop flow is called circulation. Blood flows through blood vessels. These are hollow muscular tubes. There are 3 main types of blood vessels:

  • Arteries carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart.

  • Veins return oxygen-poor blood to the heart.

  • Capillaries are tiny blood vessels that connect arteries and veins. Capillaries have thin walls that let oxygen and nutrients pass through them to your body parts. They also allow waste products to move from your body parts to the blood.

Front view of female body showing arteries, veins, heart, and lungs with closed circulation system.

Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN
Date Last Reviewed: 4/1/2024
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

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