If your blood circulation is not working well, it can mean trouble to your overall health, especially when the likely cause is blocked arteries which, when not addressed immediately, can put you at risk of death. There are many possible health issues that are attributed to poor circulation such as diabetes, low blood pressure, to heart problems even. That said there are several reasons why you may be experiencing bad circulation such as:
- Sitting for too long
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Eating foods with trans fats
Still, it’s not really easy to determine if you have blocked arteries, but by being more vigilant with the signs and symptoms, you might just be able to save yourself from its deadlier effects. Here are a few signs that you should keep an eye on.
Lower back pain
That throbbing pain in your lower back may not just be due to your prolonged sitting, but it can also be due to having blocked arteries too. Researchers believe that the lower back is usually one of the first ones to accumulate plaque hence the reduction of blood flow to that area which can cause the weakening of discs that lead to pain.
Calf pain
Atherosclerosis can be the one causing blockage in the arteries in your legs, which is quite prevalent in those who smoke often. Once this symptom appears, it is important that you have yourself checked as the doctor will require tests to see how much blood is flowing and the blood pressure in your legs too. It is important to determine whether you have any heart problems since there are various dietary recommendations that can help reduce your risk of heart issues.
Erectile dysfunction
Men have their own warning system when it comes to blocked arteries when they have an erectile dysfunction. This may be a sign that the arteries in their pelvis are clogged which can be a warning sign that you are at risk of heart attack. It would be better to have yourself checked first before taking any pills to solve this issue.
Tight jaw
Another sign that you have blocked or clogged arteries is when you have a tight jaw. This symptom appears more often in women, but this doesn’t mean that men won’t experience them at all. Harvard Medical School stated that the aches as well as pains that are emanating from your jaw and neck are usual symptoms of angina which is due to poor blood flowing towards the heart. When this symptom appears, it is best that you talk to your doctor about it to find the right treatment.
Possible Treatments and Preventive Measures to Consider
Although there are many possible reasons for you to have clogged or blocked arteries, there are preventive measures or treatments that can be done to help alleviate the problem. Here are a few that you should consider.
Exercise
One of the best preventive measures that you can do when it comes to blocked arteries is to actually be more active. Most of us have the habit of living sedentary lives that we become more at risk of clogged arteries. By adding exercise to your daily regimen, not only will it improve your blood circulation, it will also help you lose weight while building strength at the same time.
Avoid smoking and drinking
These two vices are not suitable for our overall health since they can affect our arteries too.
Change your diet
If your diet consists of fast-food, and other unhealthy food, it would be a good idea to switch it up to nutrient dense foods such as vegetables and fruits. Not only will they keep your hunger at bay, but it will also protect you from various health issues as well.
