Koronarkärlarnas

Koronarkärlarnas, or coronary arteries, are a critical part of the circulatory system. They are responsible for supplying oxygenated blood to the heart muscle itself, known as the myocardium. Without this constant supply of blood, the heart muscle cannot function.

The coronary arterial system originates from the aorta, the main artery carrying oxygenated blood from the left ventricle of the heart to the rest of the body. Two main coronary arteries branch off from the aorta: the left coronary artery and the right coronary artery. The left coronary artery further divides into two major branches: the left anterior descending artery and the left circumflex artery. These arteries, along with their smaller branches, form a network that covers the surface of the heart.

Diseases affecting the coronary arteries, most notably coronary artery disease (CAD), can lead to serious health problems. CAD is often caused by atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up inside the arteries, narrowing them and restricting blood flow. This can result in symptoms such as angina (chest pain) and, if blood flow is severely blocked, can lead to a myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack. Maintaining healthy lifestyle choices is paramount for the well-being of these vital vessels.