Blocked arteries (often caused by atherosclerosis, a buildup of plaque inside blood vessels) may develop silently for years. Symptoms depend on which arteries are affected, and some warning signs require urgent medical attention.
10 indicators of possible blocked arteries you shouldn’t ignore
- Chest pain or pressure (angina)
- A squeezing, heaviness, burning, or tight feeling in the chest, especially during activity or stress, can signal reduced blood flow to the heart.
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling unusually breathless during normal activities can occur when the heart is not getting enough oxygen-rich blood.
- Pain spreading to the arm, shoulder, jaw, neck, or back
- Especially when combined with chest discomfort, this can be a warning sign of a heart attack.
- Leg pain when walking that improves with rest
- Known as claudication, this may indicate narrowed arteries supplying the legs.
- Coldness, numbness, or weakness in a limb
- Reduced circulation can cause changes in temperature, sensation, or strength.
- Dizziness or fainting
- Reduced blood flow to the heart or brain can sometimes cause lightheadedness or loss of consciousness.
- Unusual fatigue
- Extreme tiredness, especially with exertion, can be a sign of the heart working harder due to reduced blood supply.
- Slow-healing wounds on the feet or legs
- Poor circulation from peripheral artery disease can make injuries heal slowly.
- Erectile dysfunction in men
- Artery narrowing can affect blood flow and may sometimes be an early sign of vascular disease.
- Stroke warning signs
- Sudden face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty, confusion, vision problems, or severe sudden headache may indicate a blocked artery to the brain.
Seek emergency help immediately for:
- Chest pressure lasting more than a few minutes
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Sudden trouble speaking or understanding speech
- Severe shortness of breath or fainting
Risk factors that increase the chance of blocked arteries include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and a family history of heart disease. Regular checkups and managing these risks can significantly reduce complications.
