What is Atherosclerosis?

4. Overview of Atherosclerosis Symptoms

Usually, mild cases do not produce any noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they vary depending on where the build-up is forming and if it triggers a blood clot or breaks apart. If the plaque breaks apart or a burst occurs, this could trigger a stroke or heart attack. Sometimes, this is the first symptom alerting a person of a problem. Depending on where the build-up is forming, one may experience symptoms such as chest pressure or pain, numbness in extremities like the arms or legs, slurred speech, leg pain, or high blood pressure.