Angina pectoris

ByWeence

Angina pectoris: Chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart, often associated with underlying heart disease or other factors affecting cardiovascular health.

Citations
Angina pectoris is a type of chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle doesn't receive enough oxygen-rich blood. It is often a symptom of an underlying heart disease, such as coronary artery disease, caused by narrowed or blocked heart arteries. The pain may feel like pressure or squeezing in the chest and can also radiate to the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back. Angina is typically triggered by physical exertion or stress and may subside with rest or medication. Managing angina usually involves lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes medical procedures to improve blood flow.

Understanding Angina Pectoris

Angina is classified into two main types: stable and unstable. Stable angina occurs predictably with exertion and has a consistent pattern, while unstable angina is less predictable, more severe, and can occur at rest, signaling an increased risk of a heart attack.

Symptoms

  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Pressure, heaviness, or tightness in the chest
  • Pain radiating to arms, neck, jaw, shoulder, or back
  • Shortness of breath
  • Nausea or fatigue

Treatment Options

Treatment for angina aims to reduce symptoms and prevent heart attacks. This may include:

  • Lifestyle Changes: Quitting smoking, eating a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress.
  • Medications: Nitrates, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, antiplatelet drugs, and statins are commonly used to manage symptoms and improve heart health.
  • Medical Procedures: In some cases, angioplasty or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) may be necessary to restore blood flow to the heart.

FAQs

  • Is angina the same as a heart attack?
    No, angina is a symptom of a lack of blood flow and oxygen to the heart muscle, while a heart attack occurs when blood flow is completely blocked.
  • Can angina be cured?
    Angina cannot be cured, but it can be managed effectively with treatment and lifestyle changes to improve quality of life and reduce risk factors.
  • When should I seek emergency help?
    Seek immediate medical attention if you experience chest pain that is new, worsening, or occurs at rest, as these may signal a heart attack.

Brian 'Weence' Bateman is a seasoned medical and health writer with over a decade of experience in web development, search optimization, and social media for dentists and healthcare providers. His in-depth knowledge and dedication to the field are evident in the meticulously researched and informative content he produces.

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