What are "coronary arteries" responsible for?

Coronary arteries are responsible for supplying oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle itself. This is crucial because the heart needs a continuous supply of oxygen and nutrients to function effectively, as it is a highly active muscle that requires energy to pump blood throughout the body. The coronary arteries branch off from the aorta and encircle the heart, providing the necessary blood flow to the myocardium—the thick, muscular middle layer of the heart wall. Without adequate blood supply from the coronary arteries, the heart muscle can become ischemic, potentially leading to conditions such as angina or myocardial infarction (heart attack).

Understanding the role of coronary arteries highlights their importance in maintaining cardiovascular health and underscores the relationship between heart function and oxygen delivery.