carotisarterienes

The carotisarterienes, commonly known as the carotid arteries, are major blood vessels in the neck that supply oxygenated blood to the head, face, and brain. There are two main carotid arteries, the left and the right, which run parallel to each other on either side of the trachea. Each common carotid artery then bifurcates, or divides, into two branches: the internal carotid artery and the external carotid artery.

The internal carotid artery is primarily responsible for supplying blood to the brain. It travels upwards and enters the skull through the carotid canal, branching further to nourish various parts of the brain, including the cerebrum, frontal lobe, and parts of the temporal and parietal lobes. Blockages or narrowing of the internal carotid arteries, often due to atherosclerosis, can significantly increase the risk of stroke.

The external carotid artery, on the other hand, supplies blood to the face, scalp, and neck. It branches out into numerous smaller arteries that serve structures such as the tongue, teeth, thyroid gland, and muscles of the face and neck.

The carotid arteries can be palpated, or felt, on either side of the neck, just below the angle of the jaw. Medical professionals often listen to these arteries with a stethoscope for bruits, which are abnormal sounds indicating turbulent blood flow that can be a sign of narrowing. Conditions affecting the carotid arteries, such as carotid artery stenosis, are a significant concern in cardiovascular health.