Angina is a medical problem characterized by chest pain or unease that appears when the heart does not get enough oxygen-rich blood. It is typically caused by the narrowing of the coronary arteries, which give blood to the heart muscle. Angina is a symptom of coronary artery disease, which is caused by a buildup of fatty substances in the arteries. The chest pain or unease linked with angina can vary from slight to intense, and can be described as a squeezing, burning, or tightness feeling. It is usually felt in the chest, but can also spread to the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back. Angina can be caused by physical activity, emotional tension, cold weather, or after eating a big meal. Treatment for angina usually involves lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. In some cases, medications or medical procedures such as angioplasty may be needed to improve blood flow to the heart. If left untreated, angina can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
- Stable Angina
- Unstable Angina
- Variant Angina (Prinzmetal's Angina)
- Microvascular Angina
- Vasospastic Angina
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Pain in the arms, neck, jaw, shoulder, or back
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Electrocardiography
- Anxiety examination
- Coronary artery imaging
- Ultrasound of the heart
- Blood examinations
- Thoracic X-ray
Angina is chest pain or uneasiness caused by a decrease in blood flow to the heart muscle. It is generally an indication of coronary artery disease, which occurs when the arteries that provide blood to the heart become narrowed or obstructed due to an accumulation of plaque. Angina can be activated by physical effort, psychological tension, or consuming a large meal.
Angina is commonly treated with medications and alterations in lifestyle. Drugs used to treat angina involve nitrates, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and antithrombotic drugs. Making changes such as giving up smoking, exercising often, eating a nutritious diet, and decreasing stress can also help reduce the signs of angina. In certain situations, surgery or angioplasty may be required to open clogged coronary arteries.
Follow your physician's instruction: Abide by your physician's instruction on taking medications and making lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of angina attacks. Make lifestyle changes: Implement lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, consuming a healthy diet, exercising consistently, and reducing tension. Observe your symptoms: Pay attention to your symptoms and keep a record of them. If you feel any chest pain or distress, contact your doctor immediately. Take your medications: Consume your medications as prescribed by your doctor. Evade triggers: Evade triggers that can trigger an angina attack, such as cold weather, heavy meals, or physical exertion. Get regular check-ups: Obtain regular check-ups to ensure your condition is being managed properly. Manage stress: Learn how to manage stress in your life through relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation. Get assistance: Get assistance from family and friends to help you manage your condition.