The picture shows a man having his blood pressure measured - Scottish Highers Human Biology - Question 6 - 2017
Question 6
The picture shows a man having his blood pressure measured.
(a) A blood pressure reading consists of a high systolic value and a lower diastolic value. Explain the ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The picture shows a man having his blood pressure measured - Scottish Highers Human Biology - Question 6 - 2017
Step 1
Explain the difference between these two values.
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Answer
Systolic pressure is the higher value, which occurs when the heart beats and pumps blood into the arteries. In contrast, diastolic pressure is the lower value, measured when the heart is at rest between beats.
Step 2
Suggest a reason why the pulse in the man’s left wrist stops when the cuff is inflated.
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Answer
Inflating the cuff applies pressure that compresses the artery, preventing blood flow and thereby stopping the pulse in the man's left wrist.
Step 3
Explain how atherosclerosis could have caused this high blood pressure.
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Answer
Atherosclerosis involves the buildup of fatty materials, cholesterol, or fibrous materials within the arteries. This buildup leads to a reduction in the diameter of the arterial lumen, which increases resistance to blood flow, thereby causing high blood pressure.
Step 4
Describe how this may have contributed to atherosclerosis.
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Answer
A lower HDL to LDL ratio indicates less cholesterol removal from the arteries, resulting in higher levels of LDL which can lead to cholesterol accumulation. Consequently, this contributes to plaque formation in the arteries and exacerbates atherosclerosis.
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