Angina is chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, typically due to coronary artery disease. It often feels like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the chest.
Angina occurs when the heart muscle doesn't get enough oxygen-rich blood. This usually happens because the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart, are narrowed or blocked. The most common cause is atherosclerosis, a buildup of fatty deposits called plaques on the inner walls of the arteries.
| Type | Characteristics | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Stable angina | Triggered by physical exertion or stress | 3-5 minutes |
| Unstable angina | Occurs suddenly, even at rest | More than 15 minutes |
| Variant (Prinzmetal's) angina | Caused by coronary artery spasm | 5-15 minutes |
| Microvascular angina | Affects small coronary arteries | Varies |
Angina is a symptom, not a disease itself. It's often a warning sign of underlying heart problems, such as coronary artery disease. Recognizing angina is important because it can indicate a higher risk of a heart attack. According to the American Heart Association, about 10 million Americans experience angina.
Many people confuse angina with a heart attack. While both involve chest pain, angina typically goes away with rest or medication, whereas a heart attack requires immediate medical attention. Another misconception is that angina only affects older adults; it can occur at any age, especially in those with risk factors like high cholesterol, diabetes, or smoking.
I once witnessed a colleague experiencing chest pain during a stressful meeting. He described it as a heavy pressure, which he later confirmed was stable angina. His doctor prescribed medication and lifestyle changes, which helped manage his symptoms effectively.