Angina is a type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. It is a symptom of coronary artery disease, which is also known as ischemic heart disease. Angina is typically felt as a squeezing, pressure, or tightness in the chest, and may also be felt in the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back. It is usually associated with physical activity, emotional stress, or eating a large meal, and tends to subside with rest.
The most common type of angina is stable angina, which is caused by narrowed or blocked coronary arteries that reduce the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart. This can lead to chest pain or pressure, increased heart rate, and shortness of breath. Stable angina is usually triggered by physical or emotional stress, and the chest pain typically lasts for a few minutes.
Unstable angina is a more serious condition, and can be caused by a blood clot in a coronary artery that reduces or completely blocks the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart. This can cause a sharp pain that may last for several minutes or even hours. Unstable angina is associated with an increased risk of heart attack, and should be treated as a medical emergency.
In addition to chest pain, other symptoms of angina can include sweating, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Treatment for angina can include lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. Medication, such as nitroglycerin, may also be prescribed to reduce the frequency and severity of angina attacks. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to open blocked arteries and improve blood flow to the heart.
