Coronary artery disease (CAD) occurs when the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup. This condition develops slowly over time, often without symptoms at first. However, as blockages worsen, blood flow to the heart is reduced, increasing the risk of serious heart problems, including heart attacks.
Recognizing the early warning signs of arterial blockage can be life-saving. Here are some key symptoms to be aware of:
- Chest Pain (Angina)
One of the most common signs of blocked arteries is chest pain or discomfort, known as angina. This can feel like:
- Pressure
- Tightness
- Squeezing
- Fullness or pain
The discomfort may also spread to the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back. Angina is often triggered by physical exertion or stress and typically lasts a few minutes before subsiding. According to the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, sudden or worsening chest pain should be evaluated by a doctor immediately.
- Shortness of Breath
When the heart isn’t pumping enough blood, oxygen supply to the body decreases, leading to shortness of breath. This can happen during exercise, daily activities, or even while resting or lying flat.
A study in the New England Journal of Medicine found that people with CAD often notice shortness of breath first during physical exertion when the body needs more oxygen.
- Heart Palpitations
Feeling a fluttering, pounding, or racing heartbeat can be another warning sign of coronary artery disease. When the heart struggles to push blood through narrowed arteries, it may beat irregularly.
- Nausea, Indigestion, or Stomach Pain
Some people, especially women, experience nausea, indigestion, or stomach pain during a heart attack. These symptoms can be mistaken for common digestive issues like acid reflux, the flu, or food poisoning.
A report in the Journal of Emergency Medicine emphasizes that stomach-related symptoms should not be ignored, especially if they occur alongside other heart-related signs.
- Unusual Fatigue
Feeling extremely tired for no clear reason can be an early sign of restricted blood flow to the heart. This type of fatigue may appear suddenly or persist for days and is more commonly reported by women before a heart attack.
- Cold Sweats
Unexpected cold sweats—especially when combined with chest pain or shortness of breath—may signal an impending heart attack. Sweating occurs as the body struggles to regulate circulation and oxygen levels.
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
Recognizing the symptoms of arterial blockage and seeking medical attention early can prevent serious complications. Doctors use tests like:
- Stress tests
- Echocardiograms
- Coronary angiography
These help determine the severity of blockages and guide treatment. Options may include:
- Lifestyle changes (healthy diet, regular exercise, quitting smoking)
- Medications (to lower cholesterol, improve blood flow, or reduce blood pressure)
- Medical procedures (angioplasty, stent placement, or bypass surgery)
Prevention is Key
Taking steps to maintain heart health can reduce the risk of coronary artery disease. This includes:
Eating a heart-healthy diet
Exercising regularly
Managing stress
Controlling blood pressure and cholesterol
Avoiding smoking
By staying informed and proactive, you can help protect your heart and reduce the risk of life-threatening heart conditions. If you or someone you know experiences chest pain, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue, don’t wait—seek medical help immediately.
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