EDAPT The Cardiovascular System Practice Test

The condition characterized by swelling of blood vessels is known as edema. This occurs when excess fluid builds up in the tissues of the body, which can be due to a variety of factors such as inflammation, heart failure, or poor lymphatic drainage. The swelling is typically visible and can happen in various parts of the body, including the legs, ankles, and feet. Edema directly relates to the swelling of blood vessels, as it is often the result of increased pressure in the blood vessels that allows fluid to leak into surrounding tissues. Understanding this mechanism helps clarify why edema is the correct answer, as it specifically addresses the process of fluid accumulation associated with swelling.