Download Difference Between Arteries and Veins

Difference Between Arteries and Veins
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Veins and arteries are similar in that they are circulatory systems components that channel blood through
the body. Many people have a tendency to confuse the two because of their similarities.
However, veins and arteries function differently. They exhibit differences in terms of size and structure. At
the Vein Institute of Utah, we’d like to share the following information to help clarify the issue of just how
veins and arteries are different.
How Veins and Arteries Differ
The most important difference to understand is that these circulatory system components channel the
blood in opposite directions. While the arteries channel oxygenated blood away from the heart as it
pumps, the veins carry blood back to the heart after it has already served its purpose by helping the
body’s organs and muscles function. Once the blood returns to the heart, it is re-oxygenated so that it can
be sent back out into the body by the arteries.
The appearance of veins and arteries also differs. While the arteries are red in color, veins are blue. Veins
and arteries are also located differently in the body. Whereas the arteries are typically found deep in the
body, the veins are found close to the surface of the skin.
Structurally, arteries are composed of thick elastic muscle because they are designed to stand up against
the pressure of blood that has been propelled by the heart. On the other hand, veins are composed of a
thinner muscle layer, and they feature semilunar valves that keep the blood flowing in the right
direction.
Arteries and veins also differ in terms of where they are located in the body. Whereas the arteries are
typically found deep in the body, the veins are found close to the surface of the skin.
Vascular Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affects the arteries is myocardial ischemia. This condition causes
the blood flow to become blocked and can lead to life threatening episodes such as heart attacks. If
cholesterol builds up in the arteries, patients can experience atherosclerosis. This condition can be fatal if
it leads to a stroke.
The veins can also be inflicted with a variety of different diseases. Blood clots can develop in the veins that
can lead to pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot in a vein travels to the
lung and creates a life-threatening blockage.
One common vein condition is varicose veins, which result from a condition known as venous
insufficiency. Venous insufficiency occurs when the veins are not able to circulate the blood adequately.
Because veins are so close to the surface of the skin, varicose veins are sometimes visible and often leave
patients self-conscious about their appearance.
Vascular care at the Vein Institute of Utah
Varicose veins typically appear in the legs. Although they create discomfort and physical blemishes when
veins protrude from the skin, they can be treated through taking vascular care measures that facilitate
circulation in the veins. If you feel that varicose vein treatment is right for you, schedule an appointment or
call us at 801.748.0580.