The superior laryngeal artery is a small piece of the superior thyroid artery (thyroid artery) whereby it branches off from the external carotid artery (carotid artery). The superior laryngeal artery supplies blood to the larynx and is built to maintain thyroid function with the help of a connection with the larger arteries that attach to the thyroid gland.
What is the superior laryngeal artery?
Arteries, as overall vital blood vessels, are among the blood vessels that ensure clean blood gets to the organs. By arteria laryngea superior is named a part of the laryngeal artery, whereby it opens into the arteria carotis externa (carotid artery). The arteria laryngea superior (laryngeal artery) is located near the jawbone and enables blood supply to this area of the head. This artery is present in all people as expected and does not arise as a result of degeneration of the blood vessels or a specific disorder
Anatomy and structure
Because the superior laryngeal artery is not an independent organ or system, but instead only the part of a larger artery superior thyroid artery, attention must be drawn to its parent artery in finding its anatomical definition. The superior thyroid artery is located anterior to the larynx. This belongs to the respiratory organs. The superior laryngeal artery has three layers of structure. The inner structure consists of endothelium (a special group of flat cells), and connective tissue. The third layer consists only of connective tissue. Inside is the second layer of musculature. The flexible vessel wall provides the elasticity of an artery. The external carotid artery is connected to the cerebral artery in the direction of the brain.
Function and Tasks
With the help of its function, the superior laryngeal artery supports the supply of oxygen to the brain. Arteries are vessels that supply oxygen to organs, tissues and body parts thanks to blood supply and consequently preserve their life. As a result of a heartbeat, blood fluid moves into the surrounding arteries. In connection with other arteries, the nearest organs are connected with all surrounding muscles and nerves and together they are enriched with oxygen. Arteries divert the blood from the heart and with this thing they support the function of the whole circulatory system. Since the superior laryngeal artery also opens into the cerebral arteries, in this respect the superior laryngeal artery additionally supports the blood supply of the nervous system. In the immune defense, the arteries are generally important, because the antibodies, which disarm the invaded pathogens, are transported by means of the blood path. Toxins that enter the body through the breath as well as with the edibles are eliminated during the transport from the corresponding organ to the liver. Also useful substances of the food and therapeutics are transported to the cells by means of the arteries. Balanced arterial pressure ensures health-sustaining speed in blood flow. In this function all arteries, their segments and therefore likewise the Arteria laryngea superior are involved.
Diseases
Likewise, the symptoms that are usually triggered by obstruction of an artery can be mentioned in this context, especially since the function of the superior laryngeal artery does not differ from the functionality of the other arteries. Thus, the superior laryngeal artery is also at risk of narrowing over the years. Certainly, blood clots can also be formed in it. If the arteria laryngea superior is narrowed, the thyroid artery (arteria thyroidea superior) can be calcified as well. If the blood clots are not removed, they can cause a heart attack. Depending on the severity of the damage to the surrounding nerves, it can lead to anything from temporary severe heart problems to severe cardiac arrhythmias, damage to the heart muscles and invalidity. The same can lead to permanent impairments in the form of serious complaints or even be life-threatening. Psychological problems such as depression or anxiety can occur in the context of heart disease. Cancer cells can also be transported to other organs via the arterial pathway and thus metastasize. The same hazards apply to the superior laryngeal artery as to other arteries.Risk factors are cigarette consumption, hypertension, metabolic diseases, and age. Such diseases can aggravate the lesions on the vessels. In the case of serious heart diseases, weakness and further heart damage may develop. Sometimes the side effects of medical preparations in the same sense are the reason of acquired heart diseases. In this case, the preparation must be replaced. Generally, changes in large arteries, for example in the carotid artery, are detected with imaging examination methods. A wholesome diet as well as a satisfactory level of exercise can prevent arterial damage to a certain extent. Additional measures regarding recovery are indispensable for adequate protection of the arteries. Often, blood pressure medications or heart-strengthening drugs are unavoidable to prevent further changes in the arteries. If damage to the vessels has occurred, however, it usually cannot be completely repaired. At times, a stent is used as a temporary solution to narrowing of the coronary arteries to improve blood flow and prevent thromboses that cause heart attacks. The aging process and life expectancy of the individual are dependent on arterial health.
