Heart health: 5 early symptoms that signal arterial blockage

While most people think that heart attacks occur suddenly, the fact of the matter is that most heart attacks occur after years of fatty deposits in the arteries, that eventually partially, or completely block oxygen supply to the heart. While heart attacks can be fatal, the good news is that if detected on time, a heart condition is perfectly manageable, and people go on to full lives for decades with medication, diet control and exercise. While regular check-ups are important to diagnose a heart condition, there are certain signs your body gives, when the heart’s functioning is impaired, and it is important to take note of them. Here are 5 signs that not all is well with the heart, though they can also occur because of other conditions…

Feeling weary is part of life, with work, house chores etc. However, a sudden onset of fatigue that refuses to improve with rest, may point to an underlying arterial issue. When the heart or other organs aren’t supplied with enough blood, even light activity can make the body feel drained. This pattern shows up more in women, who often skip the chest pain, and instead, notice that ordinary daily tasks leave them exhausted. Research has uncovered a close connection between narrowed arteries and unexplained tiredness, sometimes weeks before a heart attack. It’s wise to consult a doctor whenever fatigue feels unusual, or suddenly intensifies, since this early silent cue is easily missed.

When an artery becomes blocked and reduces blood flow to the heart or lungs, shortness of breath, or a sense of struggling to breathe, can emerge. You might first notice it during a workout or a stroll, or even while lying flat. Occasionally there’s no chest pain, and the only clue is that tight, suffocating feeling that you simply can’t catch a full breath. This symptom can occur out of the blue, making it one of those sudden warning signs. Research indicates that dyspnea may appear in artery disease, sometimes serving as the warning before a heart event. When breathing suddenly gets difficult for no reason, get checked up.

Feeling lightheaded or dizzy-like you might faint, can be a warning that your brain isn’t getting enough blood. Blocked arteries, those that deliver blood to the brain or the heart, are often the culprits behind these sensations. You might feel your head spinning when you get up fast, push yourself during a workout, or even after sitting for a stretch. According to research, people with arterial blockages frequently report repeated bouts of dizziness, a symptom that’s all too easy to mistake for something serious. If dizziness or sudden loss of balance keeps happening, it’s important to get a checkup for possible artery problems right away.

Sometimes a clogged artery doesn’t stay confined to the heart; it can also compromise blood flow to the arms or legs. If your hands or feet feel oddly cold, numb or weak, especially if one side appears affected, it might signal that the limb isn’t receiving circulation. The reason this shows up is that narrowed arteries can’t push oxygen‑rich blood to your extremities. Research by cardiologists and vascular specialists, repeatedly identifies this pattern as a hallmark of artery disease. Be on the lookout for skin that suddenly looks pale, and feels unusually cold or goes numb-these quiet, unnoticed signals can be the body’s way of flagging that your arteries might need medical attention.

Heart palpitations are the sensation of your heart fluttering, racing or skipping beats. You might notice them while you’re resting, exercising or even lying in bed. They arise when the heart’s electrical system gets thrown off sometimes, because a blocked artery reduces blood flow. Medical research shows that although palpitations are often harmless, they can occasionally signal heart problems, such, as narrowed arteries. If fresh or intense palpitations crop up while you’re also experiencing other symptoms, it is a good idea to seek medical guidance sooner rather than later.

Disclaimer: This article is informational only and not a substitute for medical advice