BLOCKED ARTERY SYMPTOMS & SILENT HEART ATTACKS

BLOCKED ARTERY SYMPTOMS & SILENT HEART ATTACKS

Early recognition of blocked artery symptoms is vital.

Blocked arteries obstruct the free flow of blood throughout the body, restricting the supply of oxygen to the heart and other vital organs. When the obstructions become very severe, blood flow to the heart is restricted, often resulting in shortness of breath or angina.

Recognizing the symptoms early can help to prevent cardiac arrest and potentially save a life. The blocked artery symptoms an individual will experience may vary, depending on which arteries are affected.

Artery with Atherosclerosis

Symptoms that could indicate blocked arteries

Early symptoms of blocked arteries include:

• chest pains
• headaches
• difficulty breathing
• infection (though it may be difficult to detect infection early on)

Because these are all rather minor symptoms, they typically go unchecked and blocked arteries often remain undiagnosed until the condition becomes life threatening.

Angina is a very strong indicator of blocked arteries.

Over time, as fat and cholesterol become deposited on the artery walls, they begin to form a thick plaque, causing the arteries to narrow and harden. As a result, blood flow is slowed or can even be blocked entirely. The coronary arteries, which supply oxygen rich blood to the heart, are especially vulnerable to this buildup of fat and cholesterol.

Angina it is sometimes confused with indigestion. It typically feels like a squeezing pressure or pain in the chest. Individuals experiencing chronic chest pain should visit their doctor as soon as possible.

Blocked artery symptoms should be checked.

Symptoms will usually disappear in less than 24 hours, but this is a serious condition and medical attention should be sought as soon as possible.

Carotid arteries can also be affected.

Other arteries that may be affected by blocked artery symptoms are the carotid arteries, which are located in the neck and are responsible for supplying blood to the brain. If a blockage forms here, lack of oxygen to the brain can cause a stroke or even death. Symptoms of a carotid artery blockage include dizziness, headaches, numbness on one side of the body, impaired vision, and difficulty speaking.