Arteries are the blood vessels responsible for carrying oxygen and nutrients to various parts of the body. They can become clogged due to the buildup of fatty deposits, also known as plaque, inside the arterial walls.

This condition, known as atherosclerosis, can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. It’s important to be aware of the warning signs of clogged arteries and take action to improve your cardiovascular health. Here are some of the warning signs you shouldn’t ignore:.

Chest Pain or Angina

Chest pain or discomfort, also known as angina, is a common symptom of clogged arteries. It occurs when the heart muscle can’t get enough oxygen-rich blood due to narrowed or blocked arteries.

The pain typically feels like a pressure or tightness in the chest and can radiate to the arms, neck, jaw, or back. Chest pain during physical activity, emotional stress, or eating a heavy meal is a warning sign of clogged arteries and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing can occur when clogged arteries limit blood flow to the lungs. It can also be a sign that the heart is not getting enough oxygen-rich blood.

Shortness of breath that occurs during physical activity or while lying down should be evaluated by a healthcare provider as it may indicate a serious condition.

Weakness or Numbness in the Arms or Legs

Clogged arteries can limit blood flow to the arms or legs, leading to weakness or numbness. This symptom is known as peripheral artery disease (PAD) and can make it difficult to walk or perform everyday activities.

PAD can also increase the risk of infections and slow-healing wounds in the affected areas.

Changes in Vision

Clogged arteries can affect blood flow to the eyes, causing changes in vision or even blindness in severe cases. These changes include blurred vision, double vision, or loss of vision in one or both eyes.

It’s important to seek medical attention immediately if you experience any changes in vision.

Fatigue or Dizziness

Fatigue or dizziness can occur when the heart is not getting enough oxygen-rich blood due to clogged arteries. These symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, but it’s important to have them evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Difficulty Speaking or Understanding Speech

Clogged arteries can lead to a stroke, which occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked or interrupted. Difficulty speaking or understanding speech are common symptoms of a stroke and require immediate medical attention.

Other stroke symptoms include sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arms, or legs, especially on one side of the body, and sudden severe headache with no known cause.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a common risk factor for atherosclerosis and clogged arteries. It can also lead to other serious health problems such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.

It’s important to monitor your blood pressure regularly and take steps to lower it if it’s consistently high.

High Cholesterol

High cholesterol is another common risk factor for clogged arteries. It’s important to have your cholesterol levels checked regularly and take steps to lower them if they’re high.

This can include eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and taking medication if prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Diabetes

People with diabetes are at higher risk for clogged arteries due to the buildup of glucose in the blood that can damage arteries over time.

It’s important to manage your diabetes carefully and work with a healthcare provider to prevent complications such as atherosclerosis.

Family History of Heart Disease

If you have a family history of heart disease, you may be at higher risk for clogged arteries. It’s important to discuss your risk factors with a healthcare provider and take steps to prevent or manage atherosclerosis.

Don’t ignore the warning signs of clogged arteries. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.

Taking steps to improve your cardiovascular health can help prevent serious health problems and improve your quality of life.