Clogged arteries pose significant health risks, including high blood pressure and heart attacks. But how can you recognize early signs of clogged arteries before things become critical or require medical intervention? Pay close attention to your body, as there are subtle signs that could indicate your arteries are blocked.

10 Warning Signs of Clogged Arteries

Arteries are blood vessels responsible for carrying oxygenated blood throughout the body, including to the brain, vital organs, muscles, and even to the tips of your fingers and toes. In healthy arteries, blood flows freely because their walls are smooth and clear of blockages. However, when arteries become clogged, plaques build up on their walls, restricting blood flow and potentially causing complete blockage, leading to serious health problems like heart attacks.

Recognizing the Symptoms

It’s crucial to recognize the early signs of clogged arteries to address the issue before it becomes a major health risk. Fortunately, making simple changes to your diet and exercise routine can help improve the condition of your arteries. If the blockage is severe, or if you have a family history of heart disease, your doctor may prescribe medication to help manage the situation. If you notice any of these warning signs, see your doctor promptly to create a plan for improving your artery health.

1. Nausea

Nausea is a common symptom of many health conditions, and the body uses it as a signal that something is wrong. While feeling nauseous doesn’t automatically indicate clogged arteries, if it persists, it's important to consult with your doctor.

2. Chest Pain

Chest pain, also known as angina, occurs when blood flow to the heart is restricted due to plaque buildup in the arteries. The pain usually begins in the chest and can radiate to the left arm, shoulder, jaw, and upper back. If you experience persistent chest pain or tightness, seek immediate medical attention.

3. Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath could signal that your pulmonary arteries are clogged. While it’s normal to feel winded after physical exertion, if you experience shortness of breath more than usual, especially while resting, you should consult your doctor.

4. Weakness or Numbness on One Side of Your Body

If blood flow is reduced or cut off in the carotid arteries, which supply blood to the head, it may cause weakness or numbness on one side of the body. These arteries are located on either side of the neck and are responsible for delivering blood to the brain, eyes, and face.

5. Slurred Speech

Slurred speech can be caused by various conditions, including blockage in the carotid arteries. If the blockage affects the interior branch (supplying blood to the brain) or the exterior branch (supplying blood to the tongue), it can lead to difficulty speaking clearly.

6. Vision Problems

Vision loss can be a symptom of a blocked exterior branch of the carotid artery, affecting one or both eyes. If you suddenly experience blurred vision or a noticeable decrease in your ability to see, consult with your doctor right away.

7. Leg Pain

Leg pain without a clear cause could indicate clogged peripheral arteries, which supply blood to the limbs. If you experience unexplained pain in one leg, especially without any injury, it may be a sign of a blocked artery.

8. Cold Feet

When blood circulation is restricted in your legs, it can cause your feet to feel unusually cold. This may be a sign of blocked peripheral arteries that prevent adequate blood flow to your feet.

9. Slow Healing of Foot Injuries

Inadequate blood flow can slow the healing process of injuries, especially in the feet and lower legs. If you notice that foot or leg injuries are taking longer to heal than usual, it could indicate that your blood isn’t circulating properly to those areas.

10. Heart Palpitations

Changes in heart rate, such as a pounding or fluttering feeling, could signal that blood is not flowing as it should. Heart palpitations are often brief, but if they persist or occur frequently, it’s important to see a doctor. You might also feel these sensations in your neck or throat.

The Bottom Line

Being aware of the signs of clogged arteries and other health conditions is not about becoming overly concerned; it’s about taking preventive action to protect your health. Recognizing symptoms early and seeking medical advice could save your life or the life of someone you care about. Don’t ignore any of these symptoms—take them seriously and reach out to a healthcare professional.

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your physician or a qualified healthcare provider for any questions regarding your health and current medications. Never ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking treatment due to something you’ve read here.