Symptoms of blocked arteries
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Symptoms of Blocked Arteries
Blocked arteries, also known as arterial occlusion, can lead to a variety of symptoms depending on the location and severity of the blockage. This article synthesizes findings from multiple research papers to provide a comprehensive overview of the symptoms associated with blocked arteries.
Coronary Artery Disease Symptoms
Chest Pain and Angina: One of the most common symptoms of blocked coronary arteries is chest pain, also known as angina. This pain occurs because the heart muscle is not getting enough oxygen-rich blood due to the blockage. Angina can feel like pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the chest and may also be felt in the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back .
Shortness of Breath: Patients with blocked coronary arteries often experience shortness of breath, especially during physical activity. This occurs because the heart is struggling to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs .
Palpitations and Syncope: Irregular heartbeats (palpitations) and fainting (syncope) are also reported symptoms. These occur due to the heart's impaired ability to maintain a regular rhythm and adequate blood flow.
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Symptoms
Intermittent Claudication: The hallmark symptom of PAD is intermittent claudication, which is pain or discomfort in the leg muscles that occurs during walking and is relieved by rest. This pain is due to reduced blood flow to the muscles caused by arterial blockages .
Critical Limb Ischemia: In severe cases of PAD, patients may develop critical limb ischemia, characterized by persistent pain in the feet or toes, even at rest. This condition can lead to non-healing wounds, ulcers, and an increased risk of limb loss .
Reduced Walking Ability: Patients with PAD often experience a significant reduction in their ability to walk due to pain and muscle fatigue. This symptom is directly related to the severity of the arterial blockage and the extent of ischemia in the lower limbs .
General Symptoms of Arterial Blockage
Pain at Rest: In advanced stages of arterial blockage, pain may occur even at rest. This is a sign of severe ischemia and indicates that the blood flow is critically reduced.
Muscle Weakness and Fatigue: Blocked arteries can lead to muscle weakness and fatigue, as the muscles are not receiving enough oxygen and nutrients to function properly. This is commonly seen in both coronary artery disease and PAD .
Swelling and Edema: In some cases, blocked arteries can cause swelling and edema, particularly in the lower extremities. This occurs due to poor circulation and the buildup of fluid in the tissues.
Conclusion
Blocked arteries can manifest through a variety of symptoms, primarily depending on the location of the blockage. Coronary artery disease typically presents with chest pain, shortness of breath, and palpitations, while peripheral artery disease is characterized by intermittent claudication, critical limb ischemia, and reduced walking ability. Recognizing these symptoms early is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent severe complications such as heart attacks, strokes, and limb loss.
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