Angina is a symptom of coronary artery disease.
It’s a type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart.
Angina is a feeling of pain, squeezing, or pressure in the chest. It happens when a part of the heart does not receive enough blood and oxygen.
Though it is not life threatening, but it can resemble the symptoms of a heart attack, and it is a sign of heart disease.
TYPES
STABLE ANGINA:
This occurs when the heart is working harder than usual. E.g during exercise.
UNSTABLE ANGINA
This occurs during rest. It mostly results from atherosclerosis, which involves a blockage preventing blood from reaching the heart.
MICROVASCULAR ANGINA
This can occur with coronary microvascular disease (MVD). This affects the smallest coronary arteries, etc.
SYMPTOMS
Angina involves any of the following sensations in the chest:
– Squeezing
– Pressure
– Heaviness
– Tightening
– Burning or aching across the chest, usually starting behind the breastbone.
TREATMENTS
Lifestyle Changes
The following strategies can help:
– Stopping smoking
– Managing weight
– Regularly checking cholesterol levels
– Resting when necessary
– Getting regular exercise
– Learning how to handle or avoid stress
– Having a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat or no-fat dairy products, and lean sources of protein.
Also, Medications to manage high blood pressure and beta-blockers may help manage angina. These aim to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, slow the heart rate, relax blood vessels, reduce strain on the heart, and prevent blood clots from forming.
Source: medicalnewstoday
Written by: Sarah Amah
