Heart health
Heart blockage symptoms: warning signs you shouldn’t ignore
Common and less typical symptoms of narrowed heart arteries, symptoms in women, and when to call for emergency help.
Published 28 October 2026 · Updated 28 October 2026
“Heart blockage” usually refers to narrowing of the coronary arteries (coronary artery disease). Sometimes people use the same words for “heart block”, an electrical problem with the heartbeat — a different condition. This article is about narrowed arteries.
Common symptoms
Chest discomfort on exertion that eases with rest (angina)
Breathlessness or unusual tiredness on activity
Pain in the arm, jaw, neck or back with exertion
Symptoms in women
Women more often report breathlessness, fatigue, nausea, or back or jaw pain rather than classic chest pain. These symptoms deserve the same attention.
Tests that check for blockages
An ECG may be normal between episodes. Doctors may use stress testing, echocardiography, CT coronary angiography or invasive angiography. There is no reliable way to check for blockages at home.
Learn more about coronary artery disease.
Sources and references
- NHS – Coronary heart disease — NHS
- NHLBI – Coronary heart disease — National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NIH)
Information on this website is educational and does not replace a consultation with a qualified doctor. Treatment suitability is decided only after clinical assessment.
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