Ääreisverisuoned

Ääreisverisuoned, also known as peripheral blood vessels, are the network of arteries, veins, and capillaries that carry blood to and from the limbs and organs of the body, excluding those within the head and chest cavity. This system plays a crucial role in distributing oxygen and nutrients to all tissues and removing waste products. Arteries, which branch into smaller arterioles, carry oxygenated blood away from the heart. Capillaries are the smallest vessels, forming a fine network where the exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste between the blood and the surrounding tissues occurs. Veins, starting as venules, then collect deoxygenated blood and return it to the heart. The condition of the ääreisverisuoned can impact overall health, as blockages or damage can lead to various circulatory problems. Peripheral artery disease, for example, affects the arteries in the limbs, often causing pain and difficulty with movement. Understanding the function and health of these vessels is vital for maintaining systemic circulation and tissue viability.