Comparison chartArteriesVeinsOxygen ConcentrationArteries carry oxygenated blood (with the exception of the pulmonary artery and umbilical artery).Veins carry deoxygenated blood (with the exception of pulmonary veins and umbilical vein).TypesPulmonary and systemic arteries.Superficial veins, deep veins, pulmonary veins and systemic veinsDirection of Blood FlowFrom the heart to various parts of the body.From various parts of the body to the heart.AnatomyThick, elastic muscle layer that can handle high pressure of the blood flowing through the arteries.Thin, elastic muscle layer with semilunar valves that prevent the blood from flowing in the opposite direction.OverviewArteries are red blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart. resistance vesselsVeins are blue blood vessels that carry blood towards the heart. capacitance vesselsDiseaseartherogenesis- myocardial ischemiadeep vein thrombosisThickest layerTunica mediaTunica adventitiaLocationDeeper in the bodyCloser to the skinRigid wallsmore rigidcollapsibleValvesAren't present (except for semi-lunar valves)Are present, especially in limbs