What is the Function of the Heart in the Human Body?

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All parts of our body are important and many are essential in our survival. Each organ, gland or tissue in our system serves a particular purpose that helps in the overall functioning of our body. Without any of these parts, our body could easily deteriorate and could eventually lead to sickness and worse, death. Because of this, we must make sure that appropriate care is given to every single body no matter what their purpose is. However, if we were to choose one organ which has a very vital role in our life, then it will have to be our heart. What is the function of the heart in the human body?

Our heart is definitely considered as a very important organ since it is the one that fuels the circulation of blood all over the body. As we all know, blood is the main source of energy and nutrients of all the tissues and cells in our system. Without blood, our tissues will not be able to receive the needed elements in functioning. The blood carries the oxygen along with the different electrolytes that helps strengthen the billions of cells in the body. However, without the work of the heart, our blood will not be able to travel to the different tissues especially those that are located at the extremities. It is in fact the heart that manages or controls the blood during oxygenation and distribution.

Where is the heart located? The heart is located at the center of our thoracic cavity. The thoracic cavity or the chest cavity is enclosed with the ribs in order to protect this vital organ along with the lungs. The heart is made up of four chambers. These chambers acts as a storage place for blood before it is being pumped to its rightful destination in the body. The two chambers on the right are called the right atrium and the right ventricle, while the other chambers on the left are known as the left atrium and the left ventricle. The atriums are located superior or above the ventricles of the heart. As the blood enters the heart through the superior and inferior vena cava, it will head first at the right atrium, which will then pass through to the tricuspid valve down to the right ventricle. The right ventricle will now pump blood towards the pulmonic artery passing through the pulmonic valve. This artery then carries the blood to the lungs in order for it to be oxygenated. Once done, the oxygenated blood will now head straight back to the heart through the pulmonary vein as it enters the left atrium. Once inside the left atrium, it will now go down the left ventricle by the force of gravity passing through the bicuspid valve. The left ventricle, which is the largest chamber of the four, is now responsible in pumping the blood back to the system through the aorta.

This is basically what the heart does 24 hours a day for seven days a week. As we can see, its function is very essential in keeping us alive for every minute of every day. We can therefore conclude that without the heart’s function even for just a short time, our body is already considered unequipped to live and survive.