Angina

Angina is a common symptom of heart disease that occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough blood and oxygen. It is typically experienced as a squeezing, pressure-like discomfort in the chest but can also manifest as discomfort in the arms, shoulders, neck, jaw, or back. Angina episodes can be brought on by physical exertion, emotional stress, or consuming a large meal. Angina is often the result of narrowed or blocked coronary arteries, which supply the heart with oxygen-rich blood. Coronary artery disease is the most common underlying cause of angina, and risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and a family history of heart disease. There are two primary types of angina: stable angina and unstable angina. Stable angina is predictable and typically responds to rest or medication, while unstable angina is more severe and unpredictable and requires immediate medical attention. Diagnosis of angina typically involves a physical examination, discussing symptoms with a healthcare provider, and performing tests such as an electrocardiogram, stress test, or cardiac catheterization. Treatment for angina may include lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, adopting a healthy diet, and increasing physical activity, as well as medications to control blood pressure, cholesterol, and chest pain. In some cases, surgery or a minimally invasive procedure such as angioplasty or stenting may be necessary to restore blood flow to the heart muscle.