symptoms of clogged arteries

Signs and Symptoms of Clogged Arteries

• Lower back pain: Lower back pain can be caused due to a lack of blood reaching the area.
• Heart palpitations: Heart palpitations can feel like your heart is fluttering rather than pounding. ...
• Shortness of breath: Difficulties breathing could signal poor blood flow as a result of clogged arteries. ...

More items...

Full Answer

How can it be diagnosed if you have clogged arteries?

Jul 27, 2015 · While different people experience symptoms differently, let’s take a look at three common ways clogged arteries can manifest throughout the body: Lower back pain: The arteries leading to the lower back are among the first in the body …

What are the warning signs for a clogged artery?

Jul 20, 2021 · Symptoms of Clogged Arteries. Fatigue. Dizziness. Shortness of breath. Chest pain. Lower back pain. Cold hands or feet. Pain or numbness in your legs, hands, or feet. Discoloration of the skin in the affected area. Hair loss. Decreased or absent pulses, especially in the feet.

Should I see doctor if I have clogged arteries?

Jun 24, 2020 · When the blockage is severe, the person experiences pain even at rest that usually occurs at night when lying down on their back. Other symptoms of clogged arteries : Numbness of the legs or feet Tingling sensation in legs Poor wound healing in legs Feet turn pale when they are elevated Hair loss on top of the feet Painful ulcers in toes

What tests are done to diagnose clogged arteries?

Dec 03, 2020 · Treatment of an artery that is 97% blocked is much easier than treating one that has been 100% blocked for a long time. The symptoms – chest pain, tightness and shortness of breath – can be similar, though. Sometimes, when arteries become completely blocked, a new blood supply develops around the blockage. This new blood supply, called collaterals, won't …

What are the warning signs of clogged arteries?

SymptomsChest pain (angina). You may feel pressure or tightness in your chest, as if someone were standing on your chest. ... Shortness of breath. If your heart can't pump enough blood to meet your body's needs, you may develop shortness of breath or extreme fatigue with activity.Heart attack.05-Jun-2020

How can you detect a heart blockage at home?

Place your index and middle finger of your hand on the hollow part of your inner wrist of the other arm, just below the base of the thumb. You should feel a tapping or pulse against your fingers, that is your heartbeat. Look at your watch and count the number of taps you feel in 10 seconds.27-Oct-2021

What are the signs of an unhealthy heart?

11 Common signs of an unhealthy heartShortness of breath. ... Chest discomfort. ... Left shoulder pain. ... Irregular heartbeat. ... Heartburn, stomach pain or back pain. ... Swollen feet. ... Lack of stamina. ... Sexual health problems.More items...•23-Oct-2020

What vitamin removes plaque from arteries?

Niacin, or Vitamin B3, is the best agent known to raise blood levels of HDL, which helps remove cholesterol deposits from the artery walls.28-Nov-2001

What are the life-threatening consequences of a clogged artery?

(8) Clogged arteries can cause damage to the heart, leading to a heart attack or myocardial infarction.

What are the symptoms of stroke?

Such symptoms include weakness on one side of the body, facial drooping, slurred speech, and issues with memory and thinking. 8. Lightheadedness.

What is the term for the blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart?

Final Word. Arteries are blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart. Most of the arteries in the body carry blood rich in oxygen and nutrients to vital organs, structures, and tissues within the body. Like pipes in your home or car, arteries can become clogged. Atherosclerosis is the condition in which arteries become clogged due to ...

Why do I feel fatigued when I have heart failure?

3. Fatigue. People can experience fatigue because of heart failure induced by clogged arteries. Along with labored breathing, this is yet another major symptom of heart disease in women.

Where does atherosclerosis occur?

Just as the process of atherosclerosis has been previously discussed to occur in the small arteries that feed the heart, this process can occur in the small arteries of the penis. Normal erectile function is supported by healthy blood flow into and out of the penis.

Why do I sweat when I have heart disease?

This can be related to the increased exertion the heart experiences in an effort to do its job in the face of clogged arteries.

What is the function of arteries?

Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. The passage of blood through arteries can be compromised when atherosclerosis, or clogging of the arteries, occurs. People can experience a variety of symptoms related to atherosclerosis.

Symptoms of Clogged Arteries

Clogged arteries are caused by atherosclerosis, which develops over time as plaques formed from fats, minerals, cholesterol, and more build up inside the walls of your arteries. These buildups cause the inner tunnels, called lumens, of the arteries to become smaller and narrower.

What Causes Clogged Arteries?

Clogged arteries are caused by a buildup of plaque in your arteries. Plaque is usually made up of a few substances, including minerals like calcium, or fats and cholesterol. High cholesterol levels can lead to this buildup of plaques.

Risk Factors for Clogged Arteries

A diet that is high in fats and cholesterol is just one of the things that can contribute to a buildup of plaques and clogged arteries.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing arterial problems may begin with your primary care doctor, but if a blockage is suspected, you will most likely be referred to a cardiologist or vascular specialist.

Treating Clogged Arteries

Treating clogged arteries should be done with a holistic approach. Your doctor will first address the problems that led to the clogged artery. Lifestyle changes are key, and may include:

Complications

The most concerning complications of clogged arteries are heart attack and stroke. A heart attack can occur when there is blockage in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart. When a blockage affects the brain, this is called an ischemic stroke. This type of stroke can be treated effectively with strong blood thinners.

Prevention and Management

The key to keeping your arteries clear of blockages is to eat a low-fat diet and exercise regularly. Plant-based diets have even been shown to help reverse coronary artery disease in some people. 8

What Are Warning Signs of Clogged Arteries?

Clogged arteries are most often caused due to the buildup of cholesterol-rich fatty deposits in arteries, called plaque. This waxy substance sticks to the arterial wall, making them harder and more narrow, a condition known as atherosclerosis.

Common PAD Symptoms

Intermittent claudication or cramping leg pain is one of the most common PAD symptoms which is indicative of clogged arteries. The most common location of intermittent claudication is the calf, leading to pain in legs while walking. The pain occurs while climbing, exercising or walking, and goes away with rest.

PAD and Heart Diseases

When there is a blockage in heart arteries, the person will experience shortness of breath, chest pain and other signs of coronary artery disease (CAD) due to reduced blood supply. PAD and CAD are both associated with a single disease, called atherosclerosis.

Diagnosing PAD

The simplest test for diagnosing PAD is to check the pulse in the feet. There should be two pulses that can be easily detected by a trained physician. Ankle-Brachial Index is the next step of PAD screening wherein the doctor will observe and compare the blood pressure of your arm and leg.

Virtual Doctor Visits

At USA Vascular Centers we also offer online health consultations for PAD treatment due to current concerns with viral exposure. You can have your PAD symptoms evaluated by one of our specialists through a video call from your phone, or by accessing our specialized video calling app that runs on all mobiles, laptops, tablets and desktops.

What are the symptoms of a blocked artery?

The symptoms – chest pain, tightness and shortness of breath – can be similar, though. Sometimes, when arteries become completely blocked, a new blood supply develops around the blockage. This new blood supply, called collaterals, won't deliver as much blood to your heart. This can lead to those same symptoms of chest pain and shortness of breath . ...

How to tell if an artery is blocked?

Warning signs when an artery is blocked, and how to fix it. The symptoms of an artery blockage include chest pain and tightness, and shortness of breath. Imagine driving through a tunnel. On Monday, you encounter a pile of rubble. There is a narrow gap, big enough to drive through. On Tuesday, you're driving through the tunnel ...

What is a boulder in cardiology?

In cardiology, the boulder is called a Chronic Total Occlusion (CTO). It means the artery is completely blocked. This occurs in 15% to 20% of patients who have heart disease. Sometimes there has been a complete blockage for many months or even years. However, only about 3% to 5% of these patients undergo a stent or bypass procedure, ...

Can stress test cause shortness of breath?

This can lead to those same symptoms of chest pain and shortness of breath. If you have these symptoms, a stress test can help determine if they are caused by a blockage in an artery or something else. The first step is to see a doctor.

What does it mean when your vision is blurry?

Blurry or impaired vision on one side: Clogged arteries to the brain can result in a “mini-stroke” which can temporarily affect vision. A mini-stroke is a sign of a serious problem and that a bigger stroke can occur. Take this as your warning to start making changes in your life.

Can you live with a clogged artery?

But often times, a person may live with clogged arteries without any signs or symptoms until something more serious occurs. Your body will reveal very subtle signs that your arteries are clogged by these signs, which can often be confused with other conditions.

What does it mean when your arteries are clogged?

It could mean you’re feeling tightness, heaviness, or pressure from reduced blood flow instead. Clogged arteries can ultimately cause a heart attack or stroke in the long run, however, so take your pain seriously. 11. Dizziness. No one likes the sensation of dizziness.

What is the cause of peripheral arterial disease?

Health explains you could have peripheral arterial disease, which occurs when there’s a buildup of fatty plaque in your leg arteries. Your legs may be far from your heart, but those arteries still matter. Dr.

Why do I feel winded after a flight of stairs?

Being short of breath is never a comfortable feeling — and you may be even more alarmed if you exercise regularly and you’re still feeling winded after a journey up a flight of stairs. Health explains a heaviness in your chest that affects your ability to breathe can mean there’s a problem with your arteries.

Can arteries block blood flow?

And the health of those organs all begins with your arteries. WebMD explains blood flows easily through the body in someone with healthy arteries — but in someone with clogged ones, this isn’t the case. Arterial plaque can cause blood to flow slowly, or it can block it altogether.

Can erectile dysfunction cause heart problems?

Not only that, but erectile dysfunction can be a sign your arteries are in deep trouble. Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine explains clogged arteries can reduce blood flow to your genitals, which can induce this issue. You should request a screening for heart disease if you have erectile dysfunction.

Can migraines cause heart problems?

This, of course, also likely means reoccurring migraines could signal issues with your arteries. Not every headache is cause for concern, of course.

Is a blockage in the heart artery bad for you?

5. Blurred vision or loss of vision on one side. Not only are blocked arteries bad for your heart, but they can also ruin your brain.

What are the symptoms of a heart attack?

The classic signs and symptoms of a heart attack include crushing pressure in your chest and pain in your shoulder or arm, sometimes with shortness of breath and sweating.

What happens if your heart can't pump enough blood?

Shortness of breath. If your heart can't pump enough blood to meet your body's needs, you may develop shortness of breath or extreme fatigue with activity. Heart attack.

What causes shortness of breath and chest pain?

Coronary artery disease can lead to: Chest pain (angina). When your coronary arteries narrow, your heart may not receive enough blood when demand is greatest — particularly during physical activity. This can cause chest pain (angina) or shortness of breath.

What are the causes of atherosclerosis?

A low level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, known as the "good" cholesterol, can also contribute to the development of atherosclerosis. Diabetes. Diabetes is associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease.

What happens when you sleep with a high oxygen level?

Sudden drops in blood oxygen levels that occur during sleep apnea increase blood pressure and strain the cardiovascular system, possibly leading to coronary artery disease. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). This protein appears in higher-than-normal amounts when there's inflammation somewhere in your body.

What happens if you have high blood pressure?

High blood pressure. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can result in hardening and thickening of your arteries, narrowing the channel through which blood can flow. High blood cholesterol levels. High levels of cholesterol in your blood can increase the risk of formation of plaque and atherosclerosis.

Can plaque cause a blood clot?

The deposits may narrow or block your arteries. The plaque can also burst, causing a blood clot. Coronary artery disease is thought to begin with damage or injury to the inner layer of a coronary artery, sometimes as early as childhood. The damage may be caused by various factors, including: Smoking.

What causes a clogged artery?

Clogged arteries result from a buildup of a substance called plaque on the inner walls of the arteries. Arterial plaque can reduce blood flow or, in some instances, block it altogether. Clogged arteries greatly increase the likelihood of heart attack, stroke, and even death. Because of these dangers, it is important to be aware, ...

What is the best way to treat clogged arteries?

Lifestyle changes. A healthy lifestyle is essential for the management of arterial plaque and treatment of clogged arteries. This includes: Eating a diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol, with less sugars and simple carbohydrates, and rich in fruits and vegetables. Maintaining a healthy body weight.

What is the cause of chest pain?

Clogged arteries in different parts of the body can lead to multiple medical conditions, including: Coronary artery disease . When plaque accumulates in the arteries carrying blood to the heart, it results in coronary artery disease, or heart disease. Coronary artery disease can cause chest pain ...

What happens when plaque builds up in the arteries?

In response to plaque buildup, cells in your artery walls multiply and secrete additional substances that can worsen the state of clogged arteries. Continued. As plaque deposits grow, a condition called atherosclerosis results. This condition causes the arteries to narrow and harden.

What can a doctor prescribe to prevent clogged arteries?

Your doctor may prescribe one or more of the following: 1. Lifestyle changes.

What is the blood vessel that carries oxygen?

Arteries are blood vessels that carry blood rich in oxygen throughout your body. They go to your brain as well as to the tips of your toes. Healthy arteries have smooth inner walls and blood flows through them easily. Some people, however, develop clogged arteries.

What causes plaque formation in the body?

Diabetes, or elevated circulating blood sugar, is also a major culprit. Even people who have elevated sugars not yet at the level of diabetes, such as seen in metabolic syndrome, also have increased risk of plaque formation. Other risk factors include family history, stress, sedentary lifestyle and obesity.