Arteries are responsible for carrying oxygen and nutrients-rich blood to various parts of our body.

However, fatty and cholesterol deposits can lead to blockages in these arteries, leading to serious health conditions such as stroke, heart disease, and peripheral arterial disease. In this article, we will take a look at 10 signals of blocked arteries that should not be ignored.

Chest pain or Angina

Chest pain or Angina is one of the most common warning signals of blocked arteries. The pain is caused due to the insufficient supply of oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscles.

This pain can occur during physical activity, emotional stress or after a heavy meal. It may feel like squeezing or tightness in the chest that lasts for a few minutes. Ignoring this symptom can lead to heart attack or even heart failure in most cases.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is another sign of blocked arteries in the heart. This symptom occurs when the heart is unable to pump sufficient oxygenated blood throughout the body, resulting in difficulty in breathing.

This generally happens during normal physical activities that weren’t challenging earlier. It can also cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and exhaustion.

Leg Pain

Leg pain or cramping is often an indication of peripheral artery disease, which is caused by the blockage of arteries that supply blood to the legs. This condition causes pain and discomfort, mostly during walking or other physical activities.

Leg pain can progressively worsen as the arterial blockage increases over time. Failure to treat this condition can lead to gangrene, limb amputation, and even death.

Arm Pain

Arm pain is also a common symptom of blocked arteries in your arms. It occurs because of the insufficient supply of blood that hits the nerves and muscles in your arm.

The pain may be concentrated in the upper left arm, and it can cause numbness, weakness, or tingling sensation. If you feel this pain often, you must see a doctor immediately to avoid further complications.

Irregular Heartbeat

Irregular heartbeat is also known as arrhythmia. It is a condition caused by the insufficient supply of blood to the heart due to blocked arteries.

When the heart loses its coordination, it sends erratic electrical pulses that cause an irregular heartbeat. This condition can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and even fainting. If you notice any irregular heartbeats, you should seek medical attention right away.

Dizziness

Dizziness is another symptom of blocked arteries. It is caused by the insufficient amount of blood that reaches the brain due to arterial blockages.

The dizziness can be accompanied by a feeling of lightheadedness and disorientation which can lead to fainting and falls. It is essential to have this symptom checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Weakness or Numbness

If the blood supply to brain cells or spinal cord cells decreases, it can cause weakness or numbness in the limbs or one side of the body.

This usually is a sign of serious medical issues such as stroke, cerebral embolism, or Transient ischemic attack (TIA). If you experience any sudden weakness or numbness, you must call for emergency services immediately.

High Blood Pressure

Elevated blood pressure is one of the most significant risk factors for arterial blockages. High blood pressure exercises excessive pressure on arterial walls and causes them to thicken and harden.

The thicker the arteries, the higher the risk of blockages. High blood pressure can also increase the likelihood of heart attack and stroke, which explains why treatment is necessary to keep blood pressure under control.

Fatigue

Fatigue can be due to conditions like chronic stress, sleep apnea, or even the side effects of some medications. However, in some cases, it can also be a signal of blocked arteries.

Arterial blockages can cause the heart rate to increase, forcing the heart to work even harder than it should. This can lead to fatigue and exhaustion. If you feel tired even after proper sleep or while performing routine activities, it is recommended to get a checkup done.

Swelling of Limbs

Arterial blockages can sometimes cause swelling of limbs due to the accumulation of body fluids. This condition is known as edema and usually occurs in the lower part of the body and other body parts like arms, feet, and ankles.

This condition can also lead to tenderness, skin discoloration, and an overall sense of discomfort. If you notice any swelling or tenderness, it is essential to seek medical advice to understand the root cause of the swelling.

Conclusion

Blocked arteries can lead to major health issues, including heart attack, stroke, and peripheral arterial disease.

It is crucial for anyone experiencing any of these 10 warning signals to seek medical help immediately, as ignoring these symptoms could lead to severe complications or even death.