Experiencing chest discomfort can be scary, but understanding angina can empower you to take control of your heart health. Angina signals your heart needs attention—recognizing its symptoms early is key. Learn about causes, treatments, and simple ways to manage it. DoctorTora offers convenient online consultations to support your journey to better health.

Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Introduction

Angina pectoris, commonly referred to as angina, is chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. While angina itself is not a disease, it is often a symptom of an underlying heart condition, such as coronary artery disease. Angina can be a warning sign that the heart isn’t getting enough oxygen-rich blood, especially during physical exertion or stress.

With telemedicine services like DoctorTora, you can consult a doctor online to assess your symptoms and receive guidance on managing angina. This article provides a detailed overview of angina pectoris, its symptoms, causes, and treatment options, along with tips for self-care.

What is Angina Pectoris?

Angina pectoris is a condition characterized by chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle does not get enough oxygen-rich blood. The pain is typically described as squeezing, pressure-like, or a feeling of heaviness in the chest.

There are two main types of angina:

1. Stable angina: Occurs predictably with physical activity or stress and usually resolves with rest or medication.
2. Unstable angina: More severe, occurs unpredictably, and may signal a heart attack.

Common Symptoms and Causes of Angina Pectoris

Symptoms

The symptoms of angina can vary in intensity and duration. Common symptoms include:

• Chest pain or discomfort: Often described as pressure, tightness, or heaviness in the chest.
• Pain spreading: To the arms, neck, jaw, shoulders, or back.
• Shortness of breath: Especially during physical activity.
• Fatigue or dizziness.
• Nausea or sweating in some cases.

Angina symptoms often occur during activities like climbing stairs, exercising, or experiencing emotional stress and typically subside with rest.

Causes

Angina is caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, often due to:

1. Coronary artery disease (CAD): The most common cause, where arteries are narrowed by fatty deposits (plaques).
2. Blood clots: Can partially block blood flow to the heart.
3. Spasms of the coronary arteries: Temporary narrowing of the arteries.
4. Anemia or low oxygen levels: Reduce the amount of oxygen available to the heart.

How is Angina Pectoris Diagnosed?

Diagnosing angina involves evaluating symptoms, assessing risk factors, and conducting tests to confirm the condition.

Steps in Diagnosis

1. Medical history: Discussing symptoms, lifestyle habits, and any family history of heart disease.
2. Physical examination: Checking for signs like high blood pressure or abnormal heart sounds.
3. Diagnostic tests:
   • Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures the heart’s electrical activity.
   • Stress test: Evaluates how the heart functions during physical activity.
   • Echocardiogram: Uses sound waves to create images of the heart.
   • Coronary angiography: Identifies blockages in the coronary arteries.

With DoctorTora, you can discuss your symptoms and determine whether further testing at a hospital or clinic is necessary.

How is Angina Pectoris Treated?

Medications

Treatment for angina focuses on relieving symptoms, improving blood flow, and preventing complications. Common medications include:

• Nitrates: Such as nitroglycerin, to relax blood vessels and improve blood flow.
• Beta-blockers: To reduce heart rate and lower blood pressure.
• Calcium channel blockers: To relax blood vessels and decrease the workload on the heart.
• Antiplatelet drugs: To prevent blood clots, such as aspirin.
• Statins: To lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of plaque buildup.

Lifestyle Changes

• Quit smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and worsens angina.
• Adopt a heart-healthy diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
• Exercise regularly: Engage in moderate exercise after consulting a doctor.
• Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga.

In severe cases, medical procedures such as angioplasty or bypass surgery may be needed to improve blood flow.

Self-Care Instructions for Angina Pectoris

While medical treatment is essential, self-care plays a significant role in managing angina. Here are some tips:

1. Follow your doctor’s advice: Take medications as prescribed and attend follow-up appointments.
2. Monitor symptoms: Keep track of when and how often symptoms occur.
3. Avoid triggers: Identify and minimize activities or situations that cause angina episodes.
4. Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight puts extra strain on the heart.
5. Stay active: Engage in doctor-approved physical activities.

When to Seek Care with Telemedicine for Angina Pectoris?

If you’re experiencing mild chest discomfort or need guidance on managing stable angina, telemedicine can provide convenient support.

Steps to Seek Telemedicine Care:

1. Download the DoctorTora app from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Select “Other” under symptoms on the home screen.
3. Queue for an immediate consultation or book an appointment for a future time.
4. Receive a consultation report with a detailed treatment plan and a prescription if necessary.

DoctorTora connects you with licensed doctors who can assess your symptoms, recommend treatments, and provide peace of mind.

When to Seek Urgent Care at a Physical Hospital for Angina Pectoris?

Angina can sometimes signal a heart attack, requiring immediate medical attention. Seek urgent care if you experience:

• Severe or prolonged chest pain (lasting more than a few minutes).
• Chest pain at rest or without physical exertion.
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
• Nausea, vomiting, or cold sweats.
• Pain spreading to the arms, neck, or back.

If these symptoms occur, call emergency services or go to the nearest hospital immediately.

FAQ

1. Can angina be cured?
   Angina itself cannot be cured, but its symptoms can be managed with treatment and lifestyle changes.
2. Is angina always a sign of a heart attack?
   No, but angina indicates that the heart is not receiving enough oxygen. Unstable angina can increase the risk of a heart attack.
3. Can stress cause angina?
   Yes, emotional stress can trigger angina by increasing the heart’s workload.

Related Articles

Explore more helpful resources on our website:

• Chest Pain: When to Seek Help
• High Blood Pressure: Causes and Solutions
• Stress: Managing Its Impact on Health

Angina pectoris can be alarming, but with proper care and management, you can lead a healthy, active life. If you’re concerned about angina symptoms or need personalized advice, DoctorTora is here to help. Download the app today to consult a doctor and take the first step toward better heart health.