Angina pectoris is often associated with sudden death due to chest pain. Medically, angina pectoris is linked to coronary heart disease and poses a risk of leading to a fatal heart attack.

What is Angina Pectoris?

Angina pectoris refers to chest pain that occurs when the heart muscle does not receive an adequate supply of oxygen-rich blood. Angina is a common symptom of coronary heart disease, which results from partial or complete blockages in the coronary arteries.

The pain associated with angina pectoris is typically described as pressure, tightness, squeezing, or burning in the chest. The discomfort may radiate to the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back. The symptoms of angina are similar to those of a heart attack.

Causes of Angina Pectoris

The primary cause of angina is a reduced blood flow to the heart muscle due to narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries. Several factors can trigger or worsen angina, including:

• High blood pressure: Increases the heart's workload and accelerates the process of atherosclerosis.

• High LDL cholesterol: Leads to plaque buildup in the arteries.

• Diabetes: Increases the risk of heart disease and damages small blood vessels.

• Smoking: Damages artery walls and increases the risk of blood vessel blockage.

• Obesity: Puts extra strain on the heart and increases the risk of diabetes and high blood pressure.

• Stress and anxiety: Can elevate blood pressure and heart rate.

• Lack of physical activity: Accelerates atherosclerosis and worsens heart conditions.

• Anemia: Lowers oxygen levels in the blood, causing the heart to work harder.

Beware of Angina Symptoms

Angina symptoms can vary from person to person. Common symptoms that may occur include:

• Chest pain that radiates to the neck, arms, jaw, or back

• Chest pain triggered by physical activity or stress

• Pain that subsides with rest or medication

• Short-duration chest pain (less than 5 minutes)

• Sudden onset of pain

If you experience the above symptoms, you are likely experiencing stable angina pectoris. However, if your symptoms worsen and do not improve with rest or medication, you may be dealing with unstable angina pectoris, which can signal an impending heart attack.

Other potential symptoms of angina include:

• Fatigue

• Dizziness

• Sweating

• Shortness of breath

If you experience symptoms of angina, it is essential to consult a doctor immediately to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early detection of angina can help prevent severe complications, such as a heart attack.

Maintain heart health through a healthy lifestyle and regular check-ups. You can also monitor your heart health by consulting a doctor via the Ai Care app, which is available for download from the App Store or Play Store.

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