Blocked arteries (often due to atherosclerosis, a buildup of plaque inside blood vessels) can develop slowly and sometimes cause no symptoms until a serious problem occurs. Warning signs depend on whether the affected arteries supply the heart, brain, or legs.
10 indicators of possible blocked arteries you shouldn’t ignore
- Chest pressure, tightness, or pain
- A squeezing or heavy feeling in the chest, especially during activity or stress, may indicate reduced blood flow to the heart.
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling unusually breathless during normal activities can be a sign that the heart is not receiving enough oxygen.
- Pain spreading to the arm, jaw, neck, shoulder, or back
- These can be warning signs of a heart attack, especially when combined with chest discomfort.
- Leg pain while walking that improves with rest
- This pattern can occur when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the legs (peripheral artery disease).
- Cold, numb, or weak legs or feet
- Poor circulation may cause changes in temperature, sensation, or strength.
- Dizziness, fainting, or sudden weakness
- Reduced blood flow to the heart or brain can sometimes cause these symptoms.
- Unusual fatigue
- Persistent tiredness, especially with exertion, may occur when the heart is under strain.
- Slow-healing sores on the feet or legs
- Poor circulation can make wounds heal more slowly.
- Erectile dysfunction
- In some men, reduced blood flow from vascular disease may appear before other cardiovascular symptoms.
- Signs of a possible stroke
- Sudden face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty, confusion, vision changes, or a severe sudden headache require urgent medical attention.
Reduce your risk of artery blockage
- Control blood pressure and cholesterol
- Manage diabetes if present
- Avoid smoking and tobacco
- Exercise regularly as appropriate
- Eat a heart-healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats
- Take prescribed medications as directed
Seek emergency help immediately for sudden chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or stroke symptoms (face drooping, arm weakness, speech trouble). These can be signs of a life-threatening blockage.
