Clogged arteries are a serious health condition that can lead to heart disease, stroke, and other life-threatening conditions. If you suspect you may be living with clogged arteries, there are several signs and symptoms to watch out for. Here are eight ways to know if you are living with clogged arteries:
Chest pain or discomfort
One of the most common symptoms of clogged arteries is angina, or chest pain or discomfort that occurs when your heart muscle doesn’t get enough blood. This pain may feel like pressure, tightness, or squeezing in your chest, and can sometimes spread to your arms, neck, jaw, or back.
Shortness of breath
Clogged arteries can also cause shortness of breath, especially during physical activity. This occurs when your heart muscle doesn’t get enough oxygen-rich blood to function properly.
Fatigue
Feeling tired or fatigued all the time, even after getting enough rest, is another sign of clogged arteries. This is due to your heart having to work harder to pump blood through narrowed or blocked arteries.
High blood pressure
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for clogged arteries. If your blood pressure is consistently high, it could be a sign that your arteries are narrowing or becoming blocked.
High cholesterol
High cholesterol levels can lead to the buildup of plaque in your arteries, which can lead to clogging. A blood test can determine your cholesterol levels.
Erectile dysfunction
Men with clogged arteries may experience erectile dysfunction, as blood flow to the penis can be affected by blocked arteries.
Numbness or weakness
If your arteries become clogged in your arms or legs, you may experience numbness or weakness in those areas.
Sudden cardiac arrest
In some cases, clogged arteries can lead to sudden cardiac arrest, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider. They can perform tests to determine if you are living with clogged arteries and develop a treatment plan to manage your condition.