Carotid Artery
Carotid Artery
The Carotid Artery (pronunciation: kuh-ROT-id AR-ter-ee) is a major blood vessel in the neck that supplies blood to the brain, neck, and face. There are two carotid arteries, one on the right and one on the left.
Etymology
The term "Carotid" is derived from the Greek word "karōtides" meaning "to stupefy" or "to plunge into deep sleep". This is because compression of the carotid arteries was believed to cause unconsciousness.
Anatomy
The carotid artery divides into two main branches: the Internal Carotid Artery and the External Carotid Artery. The internal carotid artery supplies blood to the brain, while the external carotid artery supplies blood to the face and neck.
Related Terms
- Atherosclerosis: A disease in which plaque builds up inside your arteries, including the carotid artery.
- Carotid Artery Disease: A condition that occurs when the carotid arteries become narrowed or blocked.
- Carotid Endarterectomy: A surgical procedure to remove plaque from the carotid artery.
- Stroke: A condition that can occur if blood flow to part of the brain is cut off, often due to blockage in a carotid artery.
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Often called a "mini-stroke," a TIA can occur if blood flow to part of the brain is briefly interrupted, often due to a temporary blockage in a carotid artery.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Carotid Artery
- Wikipedia's article - Carotid Artery
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