Signs of a blocked artery
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Signs of a Blocked Artery
Blocked arteries, whether in the heart or peripheral regions, can lead to severe health complications. Recognizing the signs early is crucial for timely intervention and treatment. This article synthesizes research findings on the signs of blocked arteries, focusing on coronary artery disease (CAD) and peripheral artery disease (PAD).
Hyperdense Artery Sign (HAS) in Acute Ischemic Stroke
One significant indicator of arterial blockage in acute ischemic stroke is the hyperdense artery sign (HAS) observed in noncontrast computed tomography (CT) scans. HAS is associated with intraluminal thrombus, indicating arterial obstruction. Studies have shown that HAS has a sensitivity of 52% and a specificity of 95% for detecting arterial obstruction on angiography. The presence of HAS suggests a high likelihood of arterial blockage, although its absence does not guarantee normal arterial patency.
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) Symptoms
Coronary artery disease, caused by plaque deposition in the coronary arteries, often leads to a heart attack if not detected early. Common symptoms include chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and fatigue. In some cases, CAD can be detected through noninvasive methods such as acoustic detection, which identifies turbulent blood flow sounds caused by partially occluded arteries. This method, although promising, requires sophisticated signal processing due to the faint nature of the sounds from coronary arteries.
Electrocardiographic Signs of Coronary Occlusion
Electrocardiographic (ECG) changes are critical for diagnosing acute coronary occlusion. Typical signs include ST-segment elevation or new onset left bundle-branch block. However, some patients may present with atypical ECG signs, making early diagnosis challenging. Recognizing these atypical signs is essential for timely intervention and restoration of blood flow.
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Indicators
Peripheral artery disease, characterized by the narrowing of arteries in the lower limbs due to atherosclerosis, presents with symptoms such as leg pain during walking (claudication), numbness, and in severe cases, critical limb ischemia (CLI). CLI can lead to limb loss and increased mortality risk due to cardiovascular events. Identifying circulating biomarkers that predict PAD progression and response to therapies is an area of active research, aiming to improve patient management and outcomes .
Modeling and Early Detection of Arterial Blockage
Early detection of arterial blockage is vital for preventing severe outcomes. Cardiovascular modeling, which views blood circulation as an electrical system, can help detect coronary arterial blockage by estimating coronary arterial resistance from blood pressure measurements. Increased coronary resistance correlates with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction, indicating severe blockage conditions.
Conclusion
Recognizing the signs of blocked arteries is crucial for early intervention and treatment. Hyperdense artery sign (HAS) on CT scans, typical and atypical ECG changes, symptoms of CAD and PAD, and advanced detection methods like acoustic detection and cardiovascular modeling are essential tools in diagnosing arterial blockages. Continued research and development of noninvasive diagnostic techniques will enhance early detection and improve patient outcomes.
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