Heart Blockage Symptoms

What is Heart Blockage?

Heart blockage is another name for heart disease, characterized by narrowing of the coronary arteries due to plaque build up. As the plaque continues to build, the artery becomes blocked reducing it's capacity to transport blood and oxygen to other parts of the body. When blood flow to the heart is interrupted chest pain becomes a reality and could mean you are having a heart attack.

Symptoms Of Heart Blockage:

Symptoms of heart blockage are much the same as a heart attack. Without proper blood flow to the heart, the heart tissue in that area becomes necrotic and dies, and this causes chest pain. An interesting illustration of heart blockage is that of wrapping a rubberband tightly around your finger. You will begin to see that area become red where the blood is trapped and cannot get thorough. You will then begin to feel pain in that finger because blood can not enter or leave the finger due to the rubberband around it. This scenario is what closely resembles the effects of heart blockage.

A leading symptom of heart blockage is pain, as well as:

• Irregular heart rate


• Chest pain radiating down the left arm to the wrist


• pain between the shoulder blades


• neck, and jaw, there may even be tooth pain


• Having that tired and run-down feeling that persists


• Sweating


• Nausea and/or vomiting


• Feeling of tightness in the chest


• Difficulty breathing


• Dizzyness


• Loss of conciousness

What is Plaque?

Plaque, or cholesterol, is a waxy substance made in the liver and travels throughout the body. Over time, it builds up and narrows the arteries, blocking the flow of blood to the heart. Thats why it is important to have your doctor monitor your cholesterol levels through blood tests. Plaque also has a heredity component that you have no control over. If a parent or other close blood relative has a history of high cholesterol levels, chances are you are susceptible as well and your risks are increased for heart blockage.

Ways to reduce cholesterol levels to decrease risk of heart blockage:

When cholesterol levels are high your doctor can prescribe medications to reduce these levels, thereby reducing your risk for heart blockage. he will also suggest a diet that is heart healthy, such as fruits, green leafy vegetables, fish, lean meats, whole grains, and skinless poultry.

Cholesterol is excreted via the bowels, therefore regular daily bowel movements are essential and help in lowering your cholesterol levels, thus reducing your risk for heart blockage symptoms. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and drinking enough of water will help to facilitate this necessary bodily function daily. Remember, food that sits in your body for days produces toxins and illness. Think of how food looks when left in the fridge for overly long periods of time. Now, imagine your body still containing food you ate over two days ago. If constipation is a problem, talk with your doctor to rule out any underlying causes. Understandably, regular bowel movements are critical for optimal health.

Heart blockage symptoms are serious and require immediate medical attention. Don't delay if you are experiencing heart blockage symptoms. Your doctor can help to eliminate your risks with the right combination of proper diet, exercise, and medications to reduce the risk and incidence of heart blockage symptoms.

by Barb Hicks, RN/LMT