Angina

What is Angina?
Angina (an-JIE-nuh) is a type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. It is a symptom of coronary artery disease, not a disease itself. It is typically described as squeezing, pressure, heaviness, or tightness in the chest.

Angina is relatively common but can be hard to distinguish from other chest discomforts, like indigestion. If you have unexplained chest pain, seek medical attention immediately.

Symptoms

The pain is often described as a heavy weight placed on the chest or a vise squeezing it. Common symptoms include:

• Chest pain or discomfort (Pressure, squeezing, fullness)
• Pain in the arms, neck, jaw, shoulder, or back
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating
• Dizziness

Types of Angina

It is crucial to understand the difference between the types of angina:

• Stable Angina: The most common form. It occurs with exertion (like climbing stairs) and stops with rest.
• Unstable Angina (Medical Emergency): Occurs even at rest, is unexpected, lasts longer (30 mins), and may not disappear with medication. It can signal a heart attack.
• Variant (Prinzmetal's) Angina: Rare. Happens at rest due to a spasm in the heart arteries.

⚠️ WHEN TO CALL 911
If your chest pain lasts longer than a few minutes and does not go away with rest or medication, it may be a heart attack. Call emergency services immediately. Do not drive yourself to the hospital unless you have no other choice.

Causes & Risk Factors

Angina is caused by Ischemia—when your heart muscle doesn't get enough oxygen because blood flow is blocked.

Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup) is the most common cause.

Risk Factors

• Tobacco Use: Damages artery walls allowing plaque to collect.
• Diabetes: Increases the risk of coronary artery disease.
• High Blood Pressure: Hardens arteries over time.
• High Cholesterol: LDL (bad) cholesterol creates blockages.
• Obesity & Lack of Exercise: Contributes to high blood pressure and cholesterol.
• Stress: Surges of hormones during stress can narrow arteries.

Diagnosis

To diagnose angina, doctors will review your symptoms and family history. Common tests include:

• ECG (Electrocardiogram): Measures electrical heart activity.
• Stress Test: Monitoring the heart while you walk on a treadmill.
• Echocardiogram: Uses sound waves to image the heart.
• Angiography: Uses X-rays and dye to see inside blood vessels.
• Blood Tests: To check for heart enzymes leaking into the blood.

Treatment Options

Treatment aims to reduce symptoms and lower heart attack risk.

1. Lifestyle Changes

Often the first line of defense:

• Stop smoking.
• Lose weight if overweight.
• Control diabetes and stress.
• Eat a heart-healthy diet (whole grains, fruits, vegetables).
• Pace yourself during physical activity.

2. Medications

• Nitrates (Nitroglycerin): Relax and widen blood vessels.
• Aspirin: Reduces blood clotting ability.
• Beta Blockers: Slow the heartbeat and lower blood pressure.
• Statins: Lower blood cholesterol.
• Calcium Channel Blockers: Relax blood vessels.

3. Surgical Procedures

• Angioplasty & Stenting: A tiny balloon widens the artery, and a wire mesh (stent) keeps it open.
• Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery: A vein is used to bypass a blocked artery, creating a new path for blood flow.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.