The heart is designed to receive blood, nutrients and oxygen from a number of different coronary arteries--arteries that service the heart muscle itself. If a blockage in the coronary arteries develops, direct damage to the heart muscle may result. Report even subtle symptoms to your health care provider to receive an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.
Angina
Chest pain, also called angina, can be a sign of a blockage to the heart. When the inside walls of the arteries of the heart become occluded by hard, thick cholesterol plaque buildup, blood flow becomes compromised. According to MayoClinic.com, episodes of angina may worsen upon exertion (such as walking up stairs, gardening or exercise) or can occur at rest. Recurring episodes of angina are common. Angina may be described as chest tightening, pain pressure, burning or numbness, and can sometimes be mistaken for heartburn or indigestion. If you experience episodes of chest pain, contact your health care provider.
Heart Attack
The heart muscle itself is provided oxygen and nutrients by several coronary arteries. When those arteries become blocked by atherosclerosis or a blood clot, damage is done to the heart muscle and serious injury or death can occur. Myocardial infarction, otherwise termed a heart attack, can be the first sign that there has been a blockage in the heart. The Cleveland Clinic reports the amount of damage done to the heart depends on the time between the onset of symptoms and their treatment. Symptoms of a heart attack may include angina, pain in the arm, jaw or back, shortness of breath, nausea and vomiting as well as sweating and irregular heartbeat. These symptoms can be indicative of other diseases and conditions and may not mean you're having a heart attack. Seek medical treatment if you experience any of these symptoms.
Shortness of Breath
When the flow of blood to the body through the heart and lungs is compromised--atherosclerosis or a blood clot in a coronary artery--shortness of breath may result. During the blockage of a coronary artery, oxygen to the heart is decreased. Because the balance between the lungs and the heart is co-dependent, the lungs may begin to work harder to bring in more oxygen in an attempt to supply the heart with the needed oxygen.
The Merck Manual says shortness of breath caused by coronary artery disease--narrowing or blockage of the arteries by atherosclerosis--is usually experienced during physical activity but can happen at rest with those who have advanced disease.
Other Symptoms of Heart Blockage
As with most conditions and diseases, many symptoms can be attributed to coronary artery blockage. Among those are: fatigue, palpitations, light-headedness, profuse sweating, nausea vomiting and pain in the arm, upper body, shoulder, back, neck jaw or stomach. Although all of these symptoms may be the sign of a blockage in the heart, they may also be indicative of another medical condition. Consult your health care provider if you have concerns regarding your symptoms.
