Angina is a type of chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. It's a symptom of an underlying heart problem, usually coronary heart disease (CHD). It can feel like a squeezing or heavy pressure on the chest and can also affect the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back.

Angina Pectoris FAQ


What is angina?

Angina is chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle doesn't receive enough oxygen-rich blood.

What causes angina?

Angina is mainly caused by coronary heart disease (CHD), which narrows the coronary arteries and reduces blood flow to the heart muscle.

What are the symptoms of angina?

Common symptoms include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea, and dizziness.

How is angina diagnosed?

Angina is diagnosed through a physical exam, review of medical history, and tests such as electrocardiogram (ECG), stress test, and coronary angiography.

What are the risk factors for angina?

Risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, lack of physical activity, and family history of heart disease.

Can angina be prevented?

Preventive measures include quitting smoking, managing high blood pressure and cholesterol, staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a heart-healthy diet.

What lifestyle changes can help with angina?

Adopting a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and avoiding triggers like extreme temperatures can aid in managing angina.

What is the difference between stable and unstable angina?

Stable angina is predictable and usually triggered by physical activity or stress, while unstable angina is unexpected and can occur even at rest.

How is angina treated?

Treatment may include medications like nitrates, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and in some cases, procedures like angioplasty or bypass surgery.

Are there natural remedies for angina?

Some herbal supplements and lifestyle changes may complement medical treatment in managing angina symptoms, but it's important to consult a healthcare professional.

Can stress worsen angina?

Yes, emotional stress can be a trigger for angina, so stress management techniques can be beneficial in reducing the frequency and severity of symptoms.

Can angina lead to a heart attack?

While angina itself is not a heart attack, it is a sign of underlying heart problems, and if left untreated, it can increase the risk of a heart attack.

What should I do if I experience angina symptoms?

If you experience angina symptoms, it's important to stop any activity, rest, and take any prescribed medication like nitroglycerin. If the symptoms persist, seek medical help immediately.

Is angina the same as a heart attack?

No, angina is a symptom of reduced blood flow to the heart, while a heart attack occurs when the blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, leading to damage or death of the heart muscle.

Can women experience angina?

Yes, although angina is often associated with men, women can also experience angina symptoms, but they may present differently.

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Information provided by Dr. Nauman Rasool. Reviewed by Dr. Maria Corujo