Internal Carotid Artery
The Internal Carotid Artery is a major blood vessel that supplies oxygen-rich blood to the brain. It branches off from the common carotid artery, which divides into the internal and external carotid arteries in the neck. The internal carotid artery travels upward through the neck and enters the skull, where it further divides into smaller arteries that nourish different parts of the brain.
This artery is crucial for brain function, as it provides blood to areas responsible for vision, cognition, and motor control. Blockages or narrowing of the internal carotid artery can lead to serious conditions, such as a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). Regular monitoring and management of cardiovascular health are important to maintain its function.