Chest pain is a symptom that no one should ignore, especially when it may signal a heart-related condition.
Angina is one of the most common warning signs of heart disease. It occurs when the heart muscle does not get enough oxygen-rich blood, often due to narrowed or blocked coronary arteries.
Understanding the symptoms of angina and knowing how to respond can make a major difference in preventing serious heart complications.
What is Angina
Angina is not a disease itself but a symptom of coronary artery disease. It typically presents as discomfort, pressure, or pain in the chest. It can also radiate to the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back. Angina happens when your heart is working harder than usual and not receiving enough oxygen.
There are two main types:
- Stable Angina: Triggered by physical exertion or stress and usually goes away with rest or medication
- Unstable Angina: Occurs at rest or with minimal activity, more unpredictable and potentially dangerous
Common Symptoms of Angina
Recognizing the signs of angina is critical for early diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms include:
- A feeling of pressure, tightness, or squeezing in the chest
- Pain that spreads to the shoulders, arms, neck, or jaw
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea or fatigue
- Sweating or lightheadedness
These symptoms often last for a few minutes and may go away with rest. However, if the discomfort is severe, lasts longer than five minutes, or does not improve with rest, it could be a sign of a heart attack and requires emergency care.
Causes and Risk Factors
Angina occurs when the heart muscle demands more oxygen than thearteries can supply. The most common cause is coronary artery disease, where plaque buildup narrows the arteries.
Risk factors include:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Family history of heart disease
Diagnosis and Testing
If you are experiencing symptoms of angina, your doctor may perform several tests:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) to detect heart rhythm abnormalities
- Stress test to monitor heart activity during exertion
- Echocardiogram to view heart structure and function
- Coronary angiography to look for blockages in the arteries
Early diagnosis is essential for effective treatment and preventing serious heart problems.
Treatment and Management
Treatment depends on the type and severity of angina. It may include lifestyle changes, medication, or procedures to improve blood flow.
Lifestyle Changes
- Eat a heart-healthy diet
- Exercise regularly with doctor approval
- Stop smoking
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Manage stress levels
Medications
- Nitrates to improve blood flow
- Beta blockers to reduce heart workload
- Calcium channel blockers to relax blood vessels
- Aspirin or antiplatelet drugs to prevent clots
- Cholesterol-lowering medications
Procedures
In severe cases, your doctor may recommend:
- Angioplasty to open narrowed arteries
- Coronary artery bypass surgery for blocked arteries
When to Seek Emergency Help
Call emergency services immediately if:
- Chest pain lasts more than a few minutes
- The pain gets worse or feels different than usual
- You feel faint, nauseated, or have trouble breathing
Never wait to see if chest pain goes away. It is better to seek help and be safe.
Conclusion
Angina is a serious symptom that signals an underlying heart issue. By recognizing the symptoms, making lifestyle changes, and following medical advice, it is possible to manage angina and lower your risk of heart attack. Regular checkups and early action are key to protecting your heart health.