As plaque builds up in the arteries, it slowly constricts the flow of blood. If left unchecked, the end result can be a stroke or heart attack. The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine reports that many people develop blocked arteries in their 20s.
High cholesterol and foods high in saturated fat are only part of the problem. Inactivity and unhealthy lifestyle are also the cause of clogged arteries as well as genetic factors. There are several signs you should be aware of that can tell you your arteries are blocked.
1. Foot pain
If you experience leg pain or your legs seem to tire easily when you walk, the Cleveland Clinic says this could be a sign of a blocked artery.
2. Difficulty breathing
If the arteries that feed your coronary arteries are blocked, WebMD reports that you may find it difficult to breathe while walking or working.
3. Severe headache
NIH MedlinePlus notes that if you begin to experience severe, unexplained headaches, they could be a sign of a blocked artery.
4. Erectile Dysfunction
Surprisingly, erectile dysfunction can be a sign, according to the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, when blood flow to the penis is cut off due to a blockage in the arteries in the legs.
5. Cold feet
If an artery is blocked in your lower extremities, WebMD reports that you may notice your feet are colder than usual.
6. Lower back pain
According to the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, chronic low back pain is often an early warning sign of clogged arteries.
7. Lack of balance
If the carotid artery is blocked, NIH MedlinePlus says dizziness and loss of balance may be noticed.
8. Jaw tightness
Symptoms in women are often different from those in men. According to Everyday Health, women may notice “a feeling of tightness in the jaw.”
9. Tired
Another warning sign for women, Everyday Health notes, is experiencing unexplained fatigue.
By knowing the warning signs, you can prevent a stroke or heart attack. If you notice any of these signs, make an appointment with your doctor to get checked.
Souce: remedydaily.com
