Koronarblodstrømmen

Koronarblodstrømmen, also known as coronary blood flow, refers to the circulation of blood through the coronary arteries, which supply the heart muscle with oxygen and nutrients. This vital blood flow is essential for the continuous functioning of the heart. The coronary arteries branch off from the aorta, the main artery carrying oxygenated blood from the left ventricle of the heart.

The rate of coronary blood flow is dynamically regulated to meet the heart's metabolic demands, which fluctuate significantly with physical activity and other physiological states. During exercise, the heart's oxygen requirement increases dramatically, leading to a corresponding increase in coronary blood flow. This autoregulation is primarily mediated by local metabolic factors, such as the buildup of adenosine and other vasodilating substances released by the heart muscle when it is working harder.

Disruptions to coronary blood flow can have serious health consequences. Conditions like coronary artery disease, characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries (atherosclerosis), can narrow the coronary arteries, restricting blood flow. This reduced flow, known as ischemia, can lead to chest pain (angina) or, if complete blockage occurs, a heart attack (myocardial infarction). Maintaining healthy coronary blood flow is therefore a key aspect of cardiovascular health.