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.
Online Medical Reviewer: Anne Fetterman RN BSN
Online Medical Reviewer: Deepak Sudheendra MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Kent Turley BSN MSN RN
Date Last Reviewed: 04/01/2024
© 2000-2026 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.
Need Help? We're Here for You
Our Member and Recipient Services Team is here to help you understand your benefits, find care, or resolve concerns.
800-510-9132
Call NC Quitline
Need support to quit smoking, vaping, or to quit other nicotine products? You can receive support including medicines free of charge:
800-784-8669
Schedule Transportation
Need transportation to a doctor's office, pharmacy, or other covered healthcare service? Contact us to arrange your ride.
800-510-9132
Provider Directory
Need to find a provider like a Primary Care Physician, Specialist, OB/GYN, or a Psychiatrist?
Provider DirectoryRelated Articles
Surgery for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
During surgery for abdominal aortic aneurysm, the weakened aortic wall is replaced with a hollow man-made tube (a graft).
Orthostatic Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)
Learn about orthostatic hypotension, including causes, symptoms, and how to care for yourself.
Discharge Instructions: Changing the Dressing on Your Central Line
Since a central line provides a direct path into your bloodstream, there is a high risk of infection when you change the dressing. Follow these step-by-step instructions to do this safely.
Low Blood Pressure, All Causes
Learn about the causes of low blood pressure and how to care for yourself at home when you have low blood pressure.
