Arteries: Functions, Types, and Structure
Learn about arteries, their functions, types, and structure. Understand how they carry oxygen-rich blood throughout the body and their role in overall circulation.
Written by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai
Reviewed by Dr. Vasanthasree Nair MBBS
Last updated on 1st Sep, 2025
Arteries are an essential part of our circulatory system, responsible for carrying oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Keeping them healthy is crucial for overall well-being. In this article, we’ll explore what arteries do, their different types, and their structure, all in simple, easy-to-understand terms.
What Are Arteries and What Do They Do?
Arteries are blood vessels that transport oxygen and nutrients from the heart to tissues and organs throughout the body. Unlike veins (which carry blood back to the heart), arteries have thick, muscular walls to withstand the high pressure of blood pumped by the heart.
Key Functions of Arteries:
- Deliver oxygen-rich blood to organs and tissues.
- Maintain blood pressure due to their elastic and muscular nature.
- Help regulate blood flow by expanding or contracting as needed.
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Types of Arteries
Arteries come in different types, each with a specific role:
1. Elastic Arteries (Large Arteries)
- Examples: Aorta and pulmonary artery.
- Function: These are the largest arteries closest to the heart. They stretch when the heart pumps blood and then recoil, helping maintain steady blood flow.
2. Muscular Arteries (Medium-Sized Arteries)
- Examples: Coronary arteries (supply the heart) and femoral arteries (supply the legs).
- Function: These arteries have more muscle, allowing them to contract and relax to control blood flow to different body parts.
3. Arterioles (Small Arteries)
- Examples: Tiny branches leading to capillaries.
- Function: They regulate blood pressure and direct blood flow to tissues by narrowing or widening.
Structure of Arteries
Arteries have three main layers:
1. Tunica Intima (Inner Layer)
- Smooth lining to reduce friction as blood flows.
- Contains endothelial cells that help prevent clots.
2. Tunica Media (Middle Layer)
- Made of smooth muscle and elastic fibers.
- Helps arteries expand and contract to regulate blood pressure.
3. Tunica Externa (Outer Layer)
- Connective tissue that protects and supports the artery.
How Do Arteries Affect Your Health?
Healthy arteries ensure proper blood circulation, but problems can lead to serious conditions:
Common Artery-Related Conditions:
- Atherosclerosis: Plaque buildup inside arteries, restricting blood flow (can cause heart attacks or strokes).
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Puts extra strain on artery walls, increasing the risk of damage.
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to limbs, causing pain and numbness.
Tips to Keep Your Arteries Healthy
Maintaining artery health is key to preventing cardiovascular diseases. Here are some simple yet effective ways:
1. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
- Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Reduce saturated fats, trans fats, and excess salt.
- Choose healthy fats like olive oil, nuts, and fatty fish (rich in omega-3).
2. Exercise Regularly
- Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise (walking, cycling, swimming) most days.
- Helps improve circulation and keeps arteries flexible.
3. Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol
- Smoking damages artery walls and increases plaque buildup.
- Excessive alcohol can raise blood pressure.
4. Manage Stress
- Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure.
- Try yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
5. Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
- Get regular check-ups to detect early signs of artery problems.
- If needed, consult a doctor for medications to control hypertension or cholesterol.
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience:
- Chest pain or tightness (could indicate blocked coronary arteries).
- Leg pain while walking (possible sign of PAD).
- Sudden dizziness, weakness, or slurred speech (could signal a stroke).
Early detection and treatment can prevent serious complications.
Need a Check-Up? Apollo 24|7 Can Help!
If you’re concerned about your artery health, Apollo 24|7 offers easy online consultations, diagnostic tests, and expert care from the comfort of your home. Book an appointment today to keep your heart and arteries in top shape!
Final Thoughts
Arteries play a vital role in keeping your body nourished and functioning. By adopting a healthy lifestyle and staying proactive with check-ups, you can protect your arteries and reduce the risk of heart disease. Small changes today can lead to a healthier tomorrow!
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Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Dr. Sandhya Chandel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Harshendra Jaiswal
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS , MD (General medicine)
Kolkata
108 DHANA DHANVANTARI Clinic, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
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General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine - Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
(375+ Patients)
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General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
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PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
