Blocked arteries can be very dangerous. They can lead to serious health problems like high blood pressure and heart attacks. But how can you tell if your arteries are getting clogged before it becomes a big problem? Watch for these signs in your body—you might not have noticed them before.

Arteries are the blood vessels that move oxygen-rich blood through your body. They deliver blood to your brain, organs, muscles, and even to your fingers and toes. When arteries are healthy, blood flows easily because their walls are smooth and clear. But when arteries get clogged, fatty deposits called plaques build up on the walls. This slows down blood flow and can completely block it, which may cause a heart attack.

How to Recognize the Symptoms

Recognizing the early signs of clogged arteries is important so you can take action before it seriously affects your health. The good news is that a healthy diet and regular exercise can help improve artery health. If your arteries are badly clogged or you have a family history of heart disease, your  doctor might also prescribe medication. If you notice any of these ten warning signs, talk to your doctor as soon as possible to find the best way to manage it.

Nausea

Nausea and vomiting can happen for many reasons, like stomach problems, food poisoning, or even pregnancy. It’s one of the body’s ways of signaling that something isn’t right. While feeling nauseous doesn’t automatically mean your arteries are clogged, ongoing nausea could be a sign of a health issue. If it doesn’t go away, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor.

Chest Pain

Chest pain, also called angina, happens when plaque buildup in the arteries reduces blood flow to the heart. It often starts in the chest near the breastbone and can spread to the left arm, shoulder, jaw, or upper back. If you have persistent chest pain or tightness, see your doctor right away.

Shortness of Brea

If you often feel short of breath, it could be a sign that your arteries are clogged. While it’s normal to feel breathless after physical activity, frequent or unexplained shortness of breath—especially when resting—shouldn’t be ignored. If this happens to you, see a doctor to get it checked.

Weakness or Numbness on One Side of the Body

If blood flow is blocked in the carotid arteries, which carry blood from the heart to the head, it can cause weakness or numbness on one side of the body. These arteries are located on both sides of the neck and supply blood to the brain, eyes, face, and head. If you experience sudden numbness or weakness, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.

Slurring of Words

Slurred speech can be a sign of several health issues, including blocked carotid arteries. If the artery that supplies blood to the brain or tongue is affected, it can make it difficult to speak clearly. If you notice sudden or ongoing speech problems, see a doctor right away.

Vision Loss

Blocked carotid arteries can reduce blood flow to the eyes, causing vision loss in one or both eyes. If you suddenly experience blurred vision or difficulty seeing, it’s important to see a doctor immediately.

Leg Pain

Leg pain can have many causes, but one possibility is clogged peripheral arteries, which supply blood to the legs and arms. If you have pain in one leg without an obvious reason, like an injury, it could be a sign of a blocked artery. If the pain persists, see a doctor.

Cold Feet

If blood flow is restricted, your extremities may feel cold. Cold feet could be a sign that the arteries in your legs are blocked, preventing enough blood from reaching your feet. If this happens often, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor.

Slow Healing of Foot Injuries

Just like cold feet, slow-healing injuries can be a sign of poor blood flow. Your body needs good circulation to heal wounds, and if your arteries are blocked, injuries on your feet or lower legs may take longer to heal or not heal at all. If you notice this, see your  doctor.

Heart Palpitations

If you notice changes in your heart rate, it’s important to see your doctor. Heart palpitations, where your heart feels like it’s pounding, fluttering, or beating irregularly, can be a sign that blood isn’t flowing properly. These sensations may last for a few seconds or minutes and can sometimes be felt in your neck or throat. If this happens, it’s best to get checked by a doctor.

The Bottom Line

Knowing the signs of clogged arteries, along with other health conditions, isn’t about worrying excessively—it’s about protecting your health. Being aware and having the courage to consult a doctor when you notice symptoms could save your life or someone else’s. Always take your symptoms seriously and seek medical advice.

Disclaimer: This information is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider for questions about your health and medications. Never ignore professional advice or delay seeking treatment based on something you read here.