10 Warning Signs That May Be Linked to Narrowed or Blocked Arteries

Seek emergency medical care for new or severe chest pain or pressure, sudden one-sided weakness or numbness, difficulty speaking, sudden significant vision changes, or other possible heart-attack or stroke symptoms.

NHLBI specifically advises immediate emergency action when heart attack or stroke symptoms occur because every minute matters.

Similarly, sudden severe loss of circulation to a limb requires urgent medical attention.

The Bottom Line

Atherosclerosis can quietly develop for years, and many people experience no obvious symptoms until blood flow becomes