What Are the Arteries of the Heart?

The arteries of the heart are known as the coronary arteries. It is vital that the coronary arteries remain healthy so they can pump blood blood throughout the heart and the rest of the body. Otherwise, heart failure or heart attacks may ensue.

Function

• The heart's arteries supply the heart with blood. Healthy heart arteries are essential for the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body.

Types

• There are two main coronary arteries. The right coronary artery runs to the posterior descending artery and the right marginal artery; the left main coronary artery runs to the left anterior descending artery and circumflex artery.

Features

• The right coronary artery provides blood to the right ventricle, right atrium, back portion of the septum and the bottom area of the ventricles. The left coronary artery provides blood for the front of the septum, the front of the left ventricle, the left ventricle's back and side and the left atrium.

Warning

• When plaque builds up inside the coronary arteries, coronary artery disease may develop. Coronary artery disease is a serious condition which can lead to heart attacks and heart failure.

Prevention/Solution

• You can keep your coronary arteries healthy by avoiding tobacco smoke, managing high blood pressure, controlling cholesterol levels, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet and managing stress.