Angina pectoris, commonly known as angina, is a type of chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. This condition is typically a symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD), which involves the narrowing of the coronary arteries, the blood vessels that supply the heart with oxygen and nutrients.

Symptoms of Angina Pectoris

  1. Chest Pain or Discomfort: Often described as pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of the chest. It can feel like a heavy weight is resting on the chest.

  2. Radiating Pain: The discomfort may spread to the arms, neck, jaw, shoulder, or back.

  3. Shortness of Breath

  4. Nausea

  5. Fatigue

  6. Dizziness

  7. Sweating

Causes of Angina Pectoris

Angina is primarily caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. This can be due to:

  1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): The most common cause, where arteries become narrowed or blocked.

  2. Spasm of Coronary Arteries: Temporary tightening of the muscles within the artery walls.

  3. Other Heart Conditions: Rarely, other heart-related issues can lead to angina.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing angina, such as:

  • Age

  • Tobacco use

  • High blood pressure

  • High cholesterol levels

  • Diabetes

  • Sedentary lifestyle

  • Obesity

  • Stress

  • Family history of heart disease

Treatment of Angina Pectoris

Treatment for angina aims to reduce pain, prevent symptoms, and decrease the risk of heart attack.

  1. Lifestyle Changes: This includes quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, exercising, and managing stress.

  2. Medications: Such as nitrates (to relax and widen blood vessels), aspirin (to prevent blood clots), beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers (to relax heart muscles), and cholesterol-modifying medications.

  3. Medical Procedures: In more severe cases, procedures like angioplasty and stent placement, or coronary artery bypass surgery may be necessary.

It's crucial for individuals with angina to work closely with their healthcare provider to manage the condition and to promptly address any worsening of symptoms or new cardiovascular symptoms. Regular follow-ups and adherence to treatment plans are key to effectively managing angina pectoris.