6 high alert warning signs of blocked arteries, as per top surgeon

Heart disease is the number one cause of death globally, and yearly, millions of people around the world, are diagnosed with the condition. However, the good news is that while heart disease is not reversible, it is highly treatable, if detected early. The problem remains that sometimes, the symptoms of early heart disease are so mild, that most people dismiss them off as simple tiredness or over exertion. However, it is important to never ignore any sign, and especially if you are over 40, suffer from Hypertension, Diabetes, or if heart disease runs in your family. Dr Sumit Kapadia, a Vascular Surgeon and Varicose Vein Specialist, lists out ‘6 high alert warning signs of blocked arteries”… Take a look...

The main indicator of blocked arteries appears as chest pain, which is also known as angina. This occurs because a weak heart requires additional oxygen-rich blood during physical activities, which triggers chest pain symptoms. The reduced blood flow through narrowed arteries creates a sensation of chest pressure, that feels like squeezing or heavy weight. The pain sensation spreads through your left arm, shoulder, jaw and back region, though it can also occur on both sides. The pain disappears when you rest, but continuous pain even at rest, can indicate a heart attack that needs emergency medical assistance. Early detection of this symptom followed by medical treatment, helps prevent fatal outcomes.

The signs of blocked arteries include two main symptoms which are breathlessness, and unexplained fatigue. This occurs because the heart requires more oxygen-rich blood to function properly, which results in unusual tiredness and breathing difficulties. The symptoms become noticeable during basic tasks, and when you remain still. A doctor needs to see you immediately when you experience unexplained fatigue or experience breathing difficulties. The heart experiences increased strain when blood and oxygen delivery becomes insufficient, because of narrowed arteries which produces these symptoms.

The medical condition peripheral artery disease (PAD) develops when arteries in the legs, become blocked or narrowed which causes leg cramps during exercise, that disappear after rest. The reduced blood flow to your leg muscles causes muscle fatigue, burning sensations and cramps during physical activity. The pain affects the lower parts of your body, including your calves, thighs and buttocks, before it intensifies to restrict your walking distance. The occurrence of recurring leg cramps that disappear after rest, requires you to schedule a checkup for your leg artery health.

The reduction of blood flow through blocked arteries, leads to nerve and muscle damage which causes numbness and weakness in the arms and legs. The insufficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to nerves produces abnormal signals, which lead to tingling sensations, muscle weakness and heaviness. The symptoms create obstacles for performing daily tasks, while simultaneously raising your risk of experiencing accidents and falls. You should visit your healthcare provider when you experience unusual body sensations or muscle weakness, that start suddenly or continue to get worse. Early medical diagnosis helps prevent additional health problems from developing.

The skin on your feet and toes becomes unable to heal properly, because of reduced blood circulation which results from blocked arteries. The development of slow-healing wounds or ulcers in reduced blood flow areas, leads to infection risks and gangrene which can become fatal when left untreated. Your feet develop persistent open wounds that create discomfort. Medical professionals need to assess your wounds right away because untreated wounds can result in severe tissue damage and potentially lead to amputation.

A person who experiences different temperatures or skin tones between their arms and legs, should seek medical help because it indicates blocked arteries. The presence of coldness and pale or bluish discoloration in one arm or leg compared to the other, indicates that blood circulation is impaired because of artery narrowing or blockage. The skin develops a smooth appearance while hair loss becomes noticeable. This occurs because of insufficient oxygen supply to tissues. You should immediately consult a doctor when you experience these symptoms because they threaten your limb health, and body wellness.

According to Dr Kapadia, “Blocked arteries don’t always present dramatically. Many times, the body gives subtle warnings, but we brush them off as “normal tiredness” or “just age.” Hence, it is all the more important to pay attention to these signs.

A healthy diet goes a long way in keeping your heart healthy, though it cannot ease artery damage

This information is intended for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, exercise routine, or lifestyle, especially if you have existing medical conditions, are taking medication, or are seeking guidance on disease prevention or management.