<br />, commonly known as angina, is chest pain or discomfort resulting from insufficient blood flow to the heart muscle. It’s often a symptom of underlying coronary artery disease. <br /><br />Types of Angina:<br /> 1. Stable Angina: This is the most common form, typically triggered by physical activity or emotional stress. The pain usually subsides with rest or medication. <br /> 2. Unstable Angina: Characterized by unexpected chest pain that can occur at rest, indicating a potential heart attack risk. This type requires immediate medical attention. <br /> 3. Variant (Prinzmetal’s) Angina: A rarer form caused by spasms in the coronary arteries, leading to temporary reduced blood flow. It often occurs at rest and can be severe. <br /><br />Symptoms:<br /> • Chest discomfort described as pressure, squeezing, or fullness.<br /> • Pain radiating to shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back.<br /> • Shortness of breath.<br /> • Nausea.<br /> • Fatigue.<br /><br />Symptoms can vary between individuals, and women may experience less typical signs such as fatigue or nausea. <br /><br />Causes:<br /><br />Angina is primarily caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle due to:<br /> • Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Atherosclerosis leads to narrowed or blocked arteries.<br /> • Coronary Microvascular Disease (MVD): Affects the heart’s smallest arteries, reducing blood flow.<br /> • Coronary Artery Spasms: Temporary tightening of the heart’s arteries.<br /><br />Risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and a sedentary lifestyle. <br /><br />Diagnosis:<br /><br />Healthcare providers may use the following to diagnose angina:<br /> • Medical history and physical examination.<br /> • Electrocardiogram (ECG).<br /> • Stress testing.<br /> • Blood tests.<br /> • Coronary angiography.<br /><br />These tests help assess heart function and identify potential blockages. <br /><br />Treatment:<br /><br />Management aims to reduce pain, prevent symptoms, and lower the risk of heart attacks. Options include:<br /> • Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a heart-healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing stress.<br /> • Medications: Such as nitrates, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and antiplatelet agents.<br /> • Medical Procedures: In severe cases, procedures like angioplasty or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) may be necessary.<br /><br />Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing angina and maintaining heart health. If you experience chest pain or related symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.