Heart attacks are the leading cause of death globally. They occur when a blood clot forms in one of the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle.

When the blood flow to the heart is reduced or stopped, the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen to function properly, leading to heart damage or failure.

The major cause of heart attacks is the hardening and narrowing of the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis occurs due to the buildup of cholesterol, fats, and other substances in the inner lining of the arterial walls.

Clogged arteries can lead to serious health issues like heart attack, stroke, and other heart diseases.

However, the good news is there are various signs and symptoms that can warn you if your arteries are blocked, and you can take steps to prevent further damage. Read on to learn about the signs and symptoms of clogged arteries.

1. Chest Pain or Tightness

One of the most common symptoms of a clogged artery is chest pain or tightness. The pain is usually felt behind the breastbone and may radiate to the left side of the body, including the arm, shoulder, back, neck, and jaw.

The pain may also be accompanied by sweating, nausea, vomiting, and shortness of breath.

The chest pain or tightness occurs when the heart muscle is not getting enough oxygen and nutrients due to the restricted blood flow. The pain may be mild or severe, depending on the degree of blockage in the artery.

2. Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is another common symptom of clogged arteries. It occurs when the heart muscle is not getting enough oxygen and cannot pump blood properly.

Shortness of breath may occur at rest or during physical activity, and it may be accompanied by wheezing or coughing.

If you experience sudden onset of shortness of breath, seek medical attention immediately, as it could be a sign of a heart attack or pulmonary embolism.

3. Fatigue

Another sign of clogged arteries is fatigue or weakness, which occurs when the heart muscle is not getting enough blood and oxygen to function properly. You may feel tired and drained even after a good night’s sleep or a restful day.

Fatigue may be a warning sign of an impending heart attack, especially if it is accompanied by chest pain or shortness of breath.

4. Dizziness or Fainting

Clogged arteries can also lead to dizziness or fainting, especially during physical activity or when standing up too quickly.

Dizziness occurs due to reduced blood flow to the brain, while fainting occurs when the brain does not receive enough oxygen and glucose.

If you experience dizziness or fainting, sit down or lie down immediately and seek medical attention. These symptoms may indicate a serious health issue like a heart attack or stroke.

5. Numbness or Weakness in Limbs

Numbness or weakness in the limbs may be a sign of clogged arteries in the neck or brain. It occurs when the blood flow to the limb is restricted, leading to nerve damage and loss of muscle control.

The numbness may be accompanied by tingling or prickling sensations.

If you experience numbness or weakness in your limbs, seek medical attention immediately, as it could be a sign of a stroke or other serious health issue.

6. Erectile Dysfunction

Studies have shown that erectile dysfunction may be a sign of clogged arteries. Erectile dysfunction occurs when the blood flow to the penis is restricted, leading to difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection.

If you experience erectile dysfunction, talk to your doctor to determine if it is due to clogged arteries or other health issues like diabetes or hypertension.

7. High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure or hypertension is a major risk factor for clogged arteries. High blood pressure occurs when the force of the blood against the arterial walls is too high, leading to damage to the blood vessels and the heart.

If you have high blood pressure, work with your doctor to manage it through lifestyle modifications and medication. Managing your blood pressure can reduce your risk of developing clogged arteries.

8. High Cholesterol

High cholesterol is another major risk factor for clogged arteries. Cholesterol is a fatty substance found in the bloodstream and cells of the body.

When the level of cholesterol in the blood is too high, it can build up in the arteries and form plaques, leading to atherosclerosis.

If you have high cholesterol, work with your doctor to manage it through lifestyle modifications and medication. Managing your cholesterol level can reduce your risk of developing clogged arteries.

9. Diabetes

Diabetes is a major risk factor for clogged arteries. Diabetes occurs when the body cannot produce or use insulin properly, leading to high blood sugar levels.

High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels and the heart, leading to atherosclerosis.

If you have diabetes, work with your doctor to manage your blood sugar levels through lifestyle modifications and medication. Managing your diabetes can reduce your risk of developing clogged arteries.

10. Family History

If you have a family history of heart disease or clogged arteries, you may be at higher risk of developing these health issues.

Family history can be a major risk factor for clogged arteries, as it may indicate a genetic predisposition to the condition.

If you have a family history of heart disease or clogged arteries, talk to your doctor about your risk factors and ways to prevent or manage these health issues.

Conclusion

Clogged arteries can lead to serious health issues like heart attack, stroke, and other heart diseases.

However, the good news is there are various signs and symptoms that can warn you if your arteries are blocked, and you can take steps to prevent further damage.

If you experience any of the signs and symptoms of clogged arteries, seek medical attention immediately. Work with your doctor to manage your risk factors through lifestyle modifications and medication.

Managing your risk factors can reduce your risk of developing clogged arteries and improve your overall health and well-being.