What is one consequence of turbulent blood flow?

Turbulent blood flow occurs when the flow of blood becomes chaotic, often due to irregularities in the vessel walls or rapid changes in flow velocity. One significant consequence of turbulent blood flow is the formation of heart murmurs. This sound is produced when blood flows through the heart or blood vessels in an irregular manner, causing vibration in the surrounding tissues.

Turbulent flow is typically characterized by its eddies and swirls, which can be generated by various factors, such as structural abnormalities in the heart, valve dysfunctions, or conditions that alter blood viscosity. When this irregular flow passes through the heart’s chambers or valves, it can create audible sounds that may be detected through a stethoscope, indicating that there may be an underlying cardiovascular issue that needs to be assessed.

In contrast, other options like increased oxygen delivery to tissues, improved circulation efficiency, and decreased heart rate are not directly associated with turbulent flow and often relate to laminar flow, where blood moves in parallel layers, facilitating more efficient circulation and oxygen transport.