A chronic total occlusion (CTO) occurs when a coronary artery (a vessel supplying blood to your heart) is completely blocked by heavy plaque build-up for more than three months. Symptoms of a CTO include:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- General fatigue
Risk Factors
You could be at increased risk for CTO if you have
- A history of smoking
- Diabetes
- Coronary artery disease
- A history of heart attack
- High cholesterol