Chronic angina is chest discomfort caused by inadequate oxygenated blood supply to the heart muscle, often triggered by a secondary condition. Diagnosis involves imaging and stress tests. Treatment includes medication, lifestyle changes, and surgery to restore proper blood flow. Symptoms include chest pain, nausea, and shortness of breath. Risk factors include obesity, smoking, and family history of heart disease.
Chronic angina is a condition in which chest discomfort occurs regularly when the body is under emotional or physical stress. Often triggered by the presence of a secondary condition that compromises proper arterial function, such as atherosclerosis, chronic angina is caused by an inadequate supply of oxygenated blood to the heart muscle. Treatment for chronic angina can be multifaceted in its approach, requiring the use of medications and making lifestyle changes. When arterial function is severely impaired, surgery may be done to restore proper blood flow and relieve angina symptoms.
A diagnosis of chronic angina is usually made through the administration of several diagnostic tests. After an initial consultation and physical exam, a doctor typically orders a battery of imaging and stress tests to evaluate the condition and function of the heart muscle. Typical tests include a coronary angiography and an electrocardiogram (ECG) to evaluate the circulatory function and electrical conductivity of the heart muscle. An exercise echocardiogram and a treadmill test may also be given to evaluate how well the heart is working when it is subjected to physical exertion.
When functioning normally, the coronary arteries continuously supply the heart muscle with oxygenated blood. In the presence of arterial blockage, blood flow narrows and limits the amount of oxygen reaching the heart. During times of physical activity or stress, the heart is forced to pump harder requiring additional blood flow. When circulation is impaired, the lack of oxygenated blood reaching the heart can lead to the gradual onset of chest pain and discomfort associated with chronic angina.
Individuals who develop chronic angina may have a variety of signs and symptoms. Similar to the signs associated with a heart attack, the individual may develop heaviness, tightness, or pain that radiates from the chest to the upper extremities and trunk. It is not uncommon for individuals to also experience nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath during an anginal episode. Usually lasting a few minutes, an episode of chronic angina usually requires the administration of a nitroglycerin tablet to relieve discomfort.
In addition to genetic factors, such as a family history of heart disease or high blood pressure, certain lifestyle and physiological factors can also contribute to the development of symptoms. Those who are obese, smoke, or don’t get enough physical activity may be at higher risk of developing symptoms. The presence of a secondary or underlying medical condition, such as anemia or heart disease, can also increase the chances of developing chronic angina.
Treatment for this condition generally requires medications prescribed to improve arterial function and lower blood pressure. Those who experience regular episodes may be given nitroglycerin pills to take as needed to ease the discomfort. Lifestyle changes, including dietary changes, weight loss, and regular exercise, may be recommended to help treat and relieve underlying conditions, such as diabetes. In cases where impaired arterial function contributes to cardiovascular dysfunction, surgery may be required to restore proper blood flow and relieve angina symptoms. Surgical approaches may include the use of angioplasty or heart bypass, depending on the severity of the arterial blockage.
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