OverviewWhat is angina?Angina is chest pain or discomfort that happens when your heart isn’t receiving enough oxygen-rich blood. As a result, your heart may beat faster and harder to gain more blood, causing you noticeable pain. Angina isn’t a disease. It’s a symptom and a warning sign of heart disease. Show
About 10 million people in the U.S. experience angina. So, if you have this symptom, you’re certainly not alone. It’s important to learn more about angina, what causes it and how to manage it in your daily life. Important: Angina can be a warning sign of a heart attack. If you have unexpected or severe chest pain, call 911 right away. What does angina feel like?Most people with angina describe having chest pain or pressure. Or they describe a squeezing sensation or a tightness in their chest. Some people say it feels like indigestion. Others say it’s hard to describe angina with words. The discomfort usually begins behind your breastbone. Sometimes, you may not be able to locate exactly where the pain is coming from. Pain/discomfort you feel in your chest may spread to other parts of your upper body. These include your neck, jaw, shoulders, arms, back or belly. Lack of oxygen to your heart can cause other symptoms, known as “angina equivalents.” These are symptoms that you don’t feel in your chest, including:
Angina feels like pain, pressure or squeezing in your chest. The discomfort may spread to other parts of your upper body like your arms or jaw. What are the different types of angina?There are four main types of angina:
The chart below lists what you should know about each type of angina.
What is angina pectoris?Angina pectoris is another name for stable angina. It refers to brief chest pain or discomfort that comes and goes in predictable patterns. How is angina different from a heart attack?Both angina and a heart attack are consequences of coronary artery disease. But angina doesn’t cause permanent damage to your heart. A heart attack does. That’s because angina signals a temporary reduction in blood flow to your heart. A heart attack causes a longer reduction in blood flow. During that time, part of your heart muscle begins to die. Another key difference is what makes the pain go away. Rest or medication (nitroglycerin) causes stable angina to go away within a few minutes. However, if you’re having a heart attack, rest or medication won’t ease your symptoms. Stable angina doesn’t require emergency care unless your pain suddenly gets worse or doesn’t go away with rest or medication. A heart attack is a life-threatening emergency that needs immediate medical attention. There’s nothing you can do on your own to make it better. That’s why it’s important to talk with a healthcare provider about your angina and learn what’s “normal” for you. Ask your provider what’s out of the ordinary for you and when you should call 911. Symptoms and CausesWhat causes angina?Reduced blood flow to your heart (myocardial ischemia) causes angina. Several problems with your coronary arteries can prevent your heart from receiving enough blood. These include:
Risk factors for anginaThere are many risk factors for angina. Some factors raise your risk of heart problems that directly cause angina, like coronary artery disease. Other factors limit how much oxygen-rich blood can reach your heart. Some risk factors (like aging) are out of your control. You may be able to manage others through lifestyle changes and medications. Talk with your provider about how to lower your risk.
Management and TreatmentHow is angina treated?Your healthcare provider will treat the underlying heart problem that’s causing your angina. The goals of treatment are to improve blood flow to your heart and lower your risk of complications. Your provider will give you a physical exam and perform testing to learn more about your condition and determine the best treatments. Common treatment options include:
Even with treatment, some people still experience angina. Your provider may prescribe a medication to quickly open your blood vessels when you have pain. Nitroglycerin is a common angina medication. Enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) is another option for people with continued pain. This therapy applies pressure to your lower legs to help improve blood flow to your heart. It may help ease your angina. What can I do at home to manage angina?Talk with your healthcare provider about how to manage angina in your daily life. They’ll offer advice based on the type of angina you have and what’s causing it. Some general tips include:
If you have angina, you may worry about what’ll trigger an angina attack. You may wonder if it’s safe for you to do the following activities:
Talk with your provider about which activities are safe for you. Many people can continue their normal routine, but should keep medicine with them in case of an angina attack. You may need to reduce heavy lifting or other strenuous tasks that could trigger an angina attack. But your provider will offer guidance based on your individual situation. How can I prevent angina?You can help prevent angina by living a heart-healthy lifestyle. Take these steps for better heart health:
Living WithWhen should I call my healthcare provider?Call your healthcare provider if you have:
When should I go to the ER?Call 911 or your local emergency number if you have symptoms of a heart attack or stroke. These are life-threatening emergencies that require immediate care. Consider printing out the symptoms so you can keep them visible at all times. Plus, share this information with your loved ones. You should also call 911 if your stable angina suddenly becomes worse or doesn’t go away with rest or treatment. A note from Cleveland Clinic Angina is a common symptom of heart disease. Many people can manage their angina by learning their triggers and knowing when to rest or take medication. But sometimes, angina can be a sign of a heart attack. Knowing when to call for emergency help can save your life. Talk with your provider about your angina. Make sure you know the difference between your “normal” angina and a more severe symptom that needs emergency care. Which term refers to chest pain brought on by physical or emotional stress and relieved by rest or medication?Stable angina is chest pain or discomfort that most often occurs with activity or emotional stress.
Which of the following conditions is the predominant cause of angina chest pain?Coronary artery disease (CAD): This is the most common cause of angina.
Which of the following recurring condition most commonly occurs in clients with cardiomyopathy?The most common cause is coronary artery disease or heart attack. However, it can also be caused by genetic changes. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This type involves abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, which makes it harder for the heart to work.
How does emotional stress cause angina?Emotional stress.
Too much stress and anger can raise blood pressure. Surges of hormones produced during stress can narrow the arteries and worsen angina.
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