artärväggarna

Artery walls are the layered structures that form the outer boundary of arteries, which are blood vessels responsible for carrying oxygenated blood away from the heart. These walls are essential for maintaining blood pressure, regulating blood flow, and protecting the delicate inner lining.

The artery wall is composed of three distinct layers. The innermost layer is the tunica intima, which is lined by a single layer of endothelial cells. These cells play a crucial role in preventing blood clots and regulating the passage of substances into and out of the bloodstream. Beneath the endothelium is the tunica media, a thick layer primarily made up of smooth muscle cells and elastic fibers. The contraction and relaxation of these smooth muscles help to control blood vessel diameter and thus blood pressure. The outermost layer is the tunica adventitia, also known as the tunica externa, which consists of connective tissue, including collagen and elastic fibers. This layer provides structural support and anchors the artery to surrounding tissues.

The elasticity of artery walls is particularly important. The elastic fibers allow arteries to stretch and recoil with each heartbeat, which helps to smooth out the pulsatile flow of blood from the heart and maintain a more continuous circulation. Damage or changes to these layers, such as through atherosclerosis, can lead to serious health problems, including heart attacks and strokes. The health of artery walls is therefore a significant factor in overall cardiovascular health.