Heart Blockage & Symptoms of Blocked Arteries
Heart blockage, also known as coronary artery disease. It happens when blood flow to the heart is partially or completely obstructed. This obstruction occurs in the arteries that supply the heart muscle with oxygen and nutrients. Coronary atherosclerosis is the most common cause of heart blockage, where plaque builds up inside the artery walls. Less common causes include coronary artery spasm and coronary artery vasculitis. Here we will discuss the symptoms of blocked arteries:
Understanding Coronary Atherosclerosis
Coronary atherosclerosis is often synonymous with heart blockage because it is the most frequent cause. Plaque, composed of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances, accumulates over time, narrowing the arteries. This accumulation reduces blood flow, leading to stable coronary artery disease. If these plaques rupture, they can result in acute coronary syndrome (ACS), which includes heart attack.
Symptoms of Blocked Arteries
In many cases, blocked arteries do not cause noticeable symptoms of heart blockage until a significant event, such as a heart attack, occurs. However, when an artery is blocked by 70% or more, symptoms of heart blockage may appear. These can include:
Chest pain (angina)
Angina, a symptom of heart problems, is often triggered by physical exertion or emotional stress. It manifests as pressure, squeezing, or heaviness in the chest, and the pain may radiate to the left arm, shoulder, jaw, or back.
Shortness of breath
Shortness of breath occurs when the heart cannot pump an adequate supply of blood to meet the body’s requirements. It can occur during activity or while at rest and may worsen when lying down.
Heart palpitations
These are experienced as sensations of a racing or fluttering heart. Palpitations are heart rhythm abnormalities in which the heart beats irregularly, out of step, too fast or too slow and may present with shortness of breath.
Weakness or dizziness
These can be signs of a heart condition. Poor blood flow may cause the skin to look blue or grey. It is important to seek medical attention and ensure the doctor is aware of these symptoms so they can check your blood or do other tests to find out what’s going on.
Nausea
This can be a symptom of heart blockage. In addition to this, atypical symptoms include vomiting, back or jaw pain, or unexplained fatigue.
Sweating
Sweating can be a symptom of heart problems that affect your breathing. If the problem is sudden and severe, you should immediately get medical help.
It’s important to note that some individuals, especially women and older adults, may experience atypical symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, back or jaw pain, or unexplained fatigue.
Symptoms of Heart Blockage
Heart block, or atrioventricular (AV) block, is a condition where the electrical signals that coordinate heartbeats are disrupted. This can lead to a slower or irregular heart rhythm. There are several types of heart block, each with varying degrees of severity:
1. First-degree heart bloc
First-degree heart bloc are often asymptomatic and may not require treatment.
2. Second-degree heart block
It can cause lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting. There are two subtypes: the more serious type can cause chest pain and shortness and requires a pacemaker.
3. Third-degree (complete) heart block
The most severe form occurs when electrical signals do not pass between the upper and lower heart chambers. This leads to significant symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, fatigue, fainting, and chest pain, and it requires immediate treatment with a pacemaker.
It is also important to differentiate between the symptoms of a blocked artery and a heart blockage.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to heart blockage:
- High blood pressure: Uncontrolled hypertension strains the arteries, increasing the risk of blockages.
- High cholesterol levels: Elevated LDL (“bad”) cholesterol leads to plaque formation.
- Smoking and tobacco use: These damage blood vessels, promoting plaque accumulation.
- Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle: These contribute to heart blockage.
- Other risk factors: These include diabetes, family history of heart disease, and older age.
When to Seek Medical Attention
It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you experience any symptoms of blocked arteries or heart blockage. Chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fainting are all warning signs that should not be ignored. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and prevent life-threatening events such as heart attacks and strokes.
Finding a Heart Specialist in Jaipur
If you are in Jaipur and concerned about heart blockage or experiencing related symptoms, it is essential to consult with a qualified heart specialist in Jaipur.
A heart doctor in Jaipur can provide expert diagnosis, treatment, and preventive care to help you maintain optimal heart health.
