Angina is a type of chest pain that is caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. This reduced blood flow can be due to blockages or narrowings in the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart.
There are different types of angina, including:
- Stable angina: This is the most common type of angina. It occurs when the heart muscle doesn’t receive enough blood and oxygen, usually during physical activity or emotional stress.
- Unstable angina: This is a more serious form of angina that can occur without any triggers and can be a sign of a heart attack.
- Variant angina: This is a rare form of angina that occurs at rest and is often caused by spasms of the coronary arteries.
Symptoms of angina can include:
- Chest pain or discomfort that may feel like pressure, fullness, or a squeezing sensation
- Pain or discomfort in the arms, neck, jaw, shoulder, or back
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Sweating
If you suspect you’re experiencing angina, it’s important to seek medical attention right away, as it can be a sign of an underlying heart problem. Treatment for angina may include medications to improve blood flow, lifestyle changes, and procedures to open blocked arteries.
