Angina is a temporary heart condition caused by the constriction of veins and arteries, resulting in chest pain. It is often caused by arteriosclerosis and can be treated with medication and lifestyle changes. It should not be confused with a heart attack and severe chest pain should be seen by a doctor immediately.
Angina, also known as angina pectoris, is a painful but temporary heart condition caused primarily by the constriction of veins and arteries. Once these blood vessels narrow, the oxygen supply to the heart is reduced and the result is pain in the chest, jaw, neck, throat or arms. The pain usually subsides once blood flow is restored. In essence, this condition is the cardiac equivalent of a headache.
The most common cause of symptoms is a condition called arteriosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. As veins and arteries age, they lose much of their elasticity. When the heart rate increases, such as during exercise, oxygenated blood has to pass through very narrow blood vessels. The heart receives less of this blood, making it feel deprived. The resulting spasm of the heart muscle can cause other muscles and nerves to react sympathetically. Many people experience a tight feeling in the chest and temporary anxiety until the pain subsides.
Angina pectoris should not be confused with a full-blown heart attack, although they do share some common symptoms. Most cases are triggered by a stressful event defined as overexertion or emotional turmoil or exercise. However, there is a form of angina that can occur without warning, but it usually occurs during the night hours. The condition can be a symptom of a more serious heart condition, but usually resolves on its own within hours. A heart attack is usually characterized by heavier, duller chest pain, as opposed to the sensations of pressure in the breastbone caused by angina.
Treatment is usually aspirin or groups of drugs known as vasodilators, which are familiar to asthma sufferers. Doctors may order a series of stress tests conducted on a treadmill with an ECG machine. Frequent flare-ups can be a sign of more serious heart problems, but many sufferers can keep it under control through lifestyle changes and medications. A doctor may recommend that patients lose weight, quit smoking, and avoid foods with high cholesterol. High blood pressure can also contribute to chronic angina, so many sufferers are advised to take blood pressure medications and find ways to avoid or relieve stress.
This article is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified physician. If you experience severe chest pain, see a doctor right away for further instructions. The difference between indigestion, angina, and an actual heart attack cannot be accurately self-diagnosed.
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