What is Angina?

Angina is a chest discomfort caused by a temporary reduction in blood supply to the heart. It is often felt as a tightness, pressure or aching in the chest, and can usually be relieved with rest or medicine. The most common type of angina is unstable angina, which frequently causes chest pain and can be a sign of serious heart problems, such as a heart attack.

Common Causes of Angina

The most common cause of angina is an insufficient supply of blood and oxygen to the heart, caused by atherosclerosis – the hardening of arteries. Atherosclerosis can lead to the narrowing of the coronary arteries and the buildup of plaque that eventually reduces the amount of blood and oxygen that can reach the heart. This can lead to angina as the heart is not able to pump enough blood and oxygen to meet its needs.

Other Causes of Angina

In addition to atherosclerosis, there are other causes of angina that can make the condition worse. These include smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, a family history of cardiovascular disease, obesity, and an unhealthy lifestyle. Other medical conditions such as kidney disease, sleep apnea, or an anemia can also cause angina.

Managing Angina Symptoms

Although angina can be an alarming and uncomfortable symptom, it is important to remember that it is usually a sign of a underlying condition that may need to be addressed. In order to manage the symptoms of angina, it is important to make lifestyle changes that can reduce the risk of developing heart disease or help control existing heart disease. These include eating a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, controlling high cholesterol, controlling blood pressure, and quitting smoking.

In some cases, medications that can help open the arteries and increase blood flow to the heart may also be prescribed. It is also important to consult with a healthcare provider on how to address the underlying condition that is causing the angina. With the right treatment and lifestyle changes, an individual can reduce their risk of developing a more serious cardiovascular issue.