What are the Symptoms of blocked Arteries?
There are many of symptoms of blocked arteries that can go unnoticed by the person to be of any significance.
Also know as clogged arteries in many cases it is the persons partner or family member who notices a change in pattern, this following list is by no means conclusive. The symptoms of blocked arteries can include any of the following.
- A lack of concentration
- Arms, hands or legs go to sleep
- Poor sleep pattern
- Tiredness
- General irritability
- Forgetfulness
- Mood swings
- An inability to perform sexually
- A lack of interest in day to day family life
- Discomfort when exercising
- Snoozing often during the day
- Discomfort in the center of to the left of the chest
- Regular heartburn or indigestion
- Sharp pain in the head in cold weather
- No enthusiasm for new things
These are just a few examples for the symptoms of blocked arteries but there are others which can be less obvious. The person with a condition of blocked arteries may not notice the majority of these symptoms but family members probably will over a period of time. The fact of the matter is that if this goes unnoticed for too long the disease is progressing and could result in a heart attack or a stroke.
Complications of Blocked Arteries
Carotid Artery Disease is a blockage in the Arteries of the Neck
Peripheral Artery Disease Is pain in the legs and thighs during exertion
Cardio Vascular Disease A group of diseases including high BP, Coronary heart disease, stroke and arteriosclerosis
CAD Is hardening of the arteries or arteriosclerosis
The key function of arteries is to transport blood from the heart to the different organs and tissues of the body.
Arteries are actually muscular blood vessels that play the role of maintaining the body’s blood circulation. Arteries are made up of three layers of tissue, the innermost layer is known as the endothelium, the middle layer is composed of smooth muscle, and the outer layer consists of connective tissue. This structure enables the arteries to withstand high blood pressure. The condition of blocked arteries is generally known as atherosclerosis.
What is Arteriosclerosis in Blocked Arteries
Atherosclerosis is the gradual buildup of plaque which is a mixture of fatty substances, cholesterol, cellular waste, and calcium, in the artery walls. Over time, this plaque narrows the arteries, rather like squeezing the end of a hose pipe which in turn reduces blood flow which increases the risk of cardiovascular complications such as heart attacks and strokes. Read more on Atherosclerosis here
One of the most common indicators of blocked arteries is chest pain, often referred to as angina. Angina can happen during physical activity and stressful situations as the heart demands more oxygen and the blocked arteries can supply enough oxygen.
Arterial Blockage and Shortness of Breath
Another frequent symptom associated with blocked arteries is shortness of breath. This may occur even during light exertion, indicating that the cardiovascular system is not functioning to its full extent. A general lack of energy or a feeling of being unusually tired during day to day activities may also be a symptom.
Symptoms can also include palpitations or irregular heartbeats, and in women, symptoms can appear differently, sometimes coming across as discomfort rather than pain.
Individuals experiencing any combination of these symptoms should consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and management.
When to Seek Medical Help
Recognizing the signs and symptoms associated with clogged arteries is essential for timely medical intervention. Those experiencing chest pain or discomfort, which may feel like pressure or squeezing, should seek immediate medical help. This sensation can be an indicator of coronary artery disease and the potential for a heart attack.