The function of the cardiac and respiratory systems are tightly linked and regulated to maintain blood pressure, tissue oxygen delivery and carbon dioxide removal. Cardiac function is controlled by baroreceptors (pressure receptors) which result in changes to the heart rate, contractility and vascular tone. Respiratory function is controlled centrally by chemoreceptors to maintain rate and both centrally and locally to maintain bronchiolar tone. | The function of the cardiac and respiratory systems are tightly linked and regulated to maintain blood pressure, tissue oxygen delivery and carbon dioxide removal. Cardiac function is controlled by baroreceptors (pressure receptors) which result in changes to the heart rate, contractility and vascular tone. Respiratory function is controlled centrally by chemoreceptors to maintain rate and both centrally and locally to maintain bronchiolar tone. |