Arteries are one of the three main blood vessels. They are tubular in shape and branch further into arterioles to reach tissues and organs. The primary function is to carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart and transport it throughout the body, including the brain.
Human arteries have a large percentage of smooth muscle in them, and they are controlled by our hormones and nervous system. Healthy arterial walls are smooth, allowing blood to flow through them effortlessly. Their outer layer is made up of collagen fibers; whereas, the middle layer consists of elastic fibers and smooth fibers, and the inner lining is the endothelium.
A sign of a healthy artery is how easily blood can flow through it. Some people, however, begin to develop clogged arteries. It occurs due to the build-up of plaque in the inner walls that restricts blood flow and causes blockages in the vessel.
Most of us believe that these blockages in the arteries only cause problems for the elderly. It is false, as, by the time people reach their 20s, these blockages already exist. Many affected by this do not know about it until it’s too late. Clogged arteries are dangerous as they increase the chances of a person getting a stroke and a heart attack. Therefore, you should be aware of the early signs and symptoms. In this way, you can not only stay alert but also seek treatment to prevent significant consequences from happening.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Clogged Arteries
Did you know that more people die from cardiovascular diseases worldwide than any other illness? Every year 18 million people become victim of coronary heart diseases and cerebrovascular diseases, according to the World Heart Federation.
Below are some common signs and symptoms of clogged arteries:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Heart palpitations
- Weakness, fatigue, or dizziness
- Nausea
- Sweating
We have discussed these signs and symptoms in details below along with how clogged arteries are diagnosed and what can be done to avoid it.
The only solution to prevent this blockage in our arteries is by focusing on our diet. Consuming a plant-based diet is shown to be effective as it low in fat and contains no cholesterol.
