Textbook Question
Relate the structure of hemoglobin to its function.
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Ch. 19 Blood
Martini, Nath, Bartholomew12th EditionFundamentals of Anatomy and PhysiologyISBN: 9780137854011
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Table of contents
- Ch. 1 An Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology25
- Ch. 2 The Chemical Level of Organization34
- Ch. 3 The Cellular Level of Organization29
- Ch. 4 The Tissue Level of Organization24
- Ch. 5 The Integumentary System17
- Ch. 6 Bones and Bone Structure33
- Ch. 7 The Axial Skeleton11
- Ch. 8 The Appendicular Skeleton17
- Ch. 9 Joints13
- Ch. 10 Muscle Tissue12
- Ch. 11 The Muscular System28
- Ch. 12 Nervous Tissue18
- Ch. 13 The Spinal Cord, Spinal Nerves, and Spinal Reflexes22
- Ch. 14 The Brain and Cranial Nerves20
- Ch. 15 Sensory Pathways and the Somatic Nervous System17
- Ch. 16 The Autonomic Nervous System and Higher-Order Functions30
- Ch. 17 The Special Senses15
- Ch. 18 The Endocrine System21
- Ch. 19 Blood31
- Ch. 20 The Heart31
- Ch. 21 Blood Vessels and Circulation26
- Ch. 22 The Lymphatic System and Immunity25
- Ch. 23 The Respiratory System4
- Ch. 24 The Digestive System18
- Ch. 26 The Urinary System31
- Ch. 27 Fluids & Electrolytes30
- Ch. 28 The Reproductive System12
- Ch. 29 Development and Inheritance17
Martini, Nath, Bartholomew12th EditionFundamentals of Anatomy and PhysiologyISBN: 9780137854011Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 19, Problem 27
Why is aspirin sometimes prescribed for the prevention of vascular problems?
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that vascular problems often involve the formation of blood clots, which can block blood vessels and lead to conditions such as heart attacks or strokes.
Recognize that aspirin acts as an antiplatelet agent, meaning it inhibits the function of platelets, which are cell fragments involved in blood clotting.
Learn that aspirin irreversibly inhibits the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), which is necessary for the production of thromboxane A2, a molecule that promotes platelet aggregation.
By reducing thromboxane A2 levels, aspirin decreases platelet aggregation, thereby reducing the likelihood of clot formation in blood vessels.
Therefore, aspirin is prescribed in low doses to help prevent vascular problems by minimizing the risk of harmful blood clots forming and blocking blood flow.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Aspirin's Antiplatelet Effect
Aspirin inhibits the enzyme cyclooxygenase, which reduces the production of thromboxane A2, a molecule that promotes platelet aggregation. This antiplatelet effect helps prevent blood clots from forming, reducing the risk of blockages in blood vessels.
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Vascular Problems and Blood Clots
Vascular problems such as heart attacks and strokes often result from blood clots blocking arteries. Preventing clot formation is crucial in managing these conditions, especially in individuals at high risk of cardiovascular events.
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Preventive Use of Aspirin in Cardiovascular Disease
Low-dose aspirin is prescribed as a preventive measure to reduce the likelihood of recurrent heart attacks or strokes by minimizing clot formation. Its use is carefully balanced against potential risks like bleeding.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question
What is the role of blood in the stabilization and maintenance of body temperature?
Textbook Question
In the disease mononucleosis ('mono'), the spleen enlarges because of increased numbers of phagocytes and other cells. Common signs and symptoms of this disease include pale complexion, a tired feeling, and a lack of energy sometimes to the point of not being able to get out of bed. What might cause these signs and symptoms?
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Textbook Question
How do elements of blood defend against toxins and pathogens in the body?
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Textbook Question
A test for prothrombin time is used to identify deficiencies in the extrinsic clotting pathway; prothrombin time is prolonged if any of the factors are deficient. A test for activated partial thromboplastin time is used in a similar fashion to detect deficiencies in the intrinsic clotting pathway. Which factor would be deficient if a person had a prolonged prothrombin time but a normal partial thromboplastin time?
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Textbook Question
Almost half of our vitamin K is synthesized by bacteria that inhabit the large intestine. Based on this information, how could taking a broad-spectrum antibiotic for a long time cause frequent nosebleeds?
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