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Cardiac Cycle: A Journey Through Systole and Diastole

Understanding the Heart's Pumping Action

The cardiac cycle, the rhythmic contraction and relaxation of the heart, plays a vital role in maintaining blood flow throughout the body. This intricate process consists of two key phases: systole and diastole.

Systole: When the Heart Contracts

During systole, the heart muscles contract, forcing blood out of the ventricles (the lower chambers of the heart). The left ventricle pumps oxygenated blood to the body's tissues, while the right ventricle sends deoxygenated blood to the lungs.

Diastole: When the Heart Relaxes

After systole, the heart relaxes during diastole. This allows the ventricles to fill with blood from the atria (the upper chambers of the heart). Blood flows into the left atrium from the lungs, and into the right atrium from the body's tissues.

The Cardiac Cycle in Action

The cardiac cycle is a continuous process that repeats itself with each heartbeat. It ensures that the body's tissues receive a constant supply of oxygenated blood and that waste products are removed. The proper functioning of the cardiac cycle is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.

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