Which symptom is often associated with partial blockage of the coronary arteries?

Chest pain during activity is often linked to a partial blockage of the coronary arteries, a condition known as angina. This occurs because the heart muscle is not receiving enough oxygen-rich blood during times of exertion, leading to discomfort or pain in the chest. The demand for oxygen increases during physical activity, but if the coronary arteries are narrowed, they may not be able to deliver sufficient blood, resulting in this characteristic symptom.

Other options, while they may indicate various medical conditions, do not specifically correlate with coronary artery issues in the same direct way. For instance, shortness of breath can occur due to many causes, including pulmonary problems, and is not exclusively tied to the heart's blood supply. Frequent headaches and numbness in limbs generally relate to different health issues, such as neurological conditions or circulatory problems outside of the coronary arteries. Hence, chest pain during activity stands out as a clear, indicative symptom of coronary artery obstruction.