What are the Symptoms of Angina Pain?
October 14, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Angina, also known as angina pectoris, is chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle doesn’t receive enough oxygen-rich blood. It is usually a symptom of underlying heart disease, often related to atherosclerosis (narrowing of the coronary arteries). Symptoms of angina can vary, but commonly include:
- Chest Pain or Discomfort:
- Aching, pressure, tightness, burning, or squeezing sensation in the chest, often behind the breastbone. The pain may radiate to the neck, jaw, shoulder, back, or arm (usually the left arm).
- Pain Patterns:
- Typically, angina pain follows a predictable pattern, often triggered by physical exertion, emotional stress, or cold temperatures. Rest or nitroglycerin may relieve the pain.
- Shortness of Breath:
- Feeling breathless or having difficulty catching your breath, especially during exertion or after a meal.
- Fatigue:
- Unusual tiredness, lack of energy, or an overall feeling of weakness.
- Indigestion or Heartburn:
- Discomfort resembling indigestion, heartburn, or a fullness or squeezing sensation in the abdomen.
- Sweating:
- Excessive sweating, often described as clammy skin or a cold sweat, without an obvious cause.
- Nausea:
- Feeling nauseous or queasy, sometimes accompanied by vomiting.
- Dizziness or Light-headedness:
- Feeling dizzy or light-headed, possibly due to decreased blood flow to the brain.
- Pain in the Shoulders, Arms, Neck, Jaw, or Back:
- Pain or discomfort that spreads from the chest to the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or upper back.
- Anxiety or Restlessness:
- Feelings of anxiety, restlessness, or a sense of impending doom.
It’s important to note that angina symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people may experience atypical symptoms, especially women and older adults. Additionally, not all chest pain is angina; chest pain may also be caused by other cardiac or non-cardiac conditions.
If you experience chest pain or symptoms suggestive of angina, seek immediate medical attention. Prompt evaluation is crucial for diagnosing the cause and determining appropriate treatment. Angina can be managed with medications, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, procedures or surgeries to improve blood flow to the heart.