Angina Pectoris

Angina pectoris is the medical term for chest pain or discomfort due to coronary heart disease. Insufficient blood supply causes this disease. Ischemic heart disease usually occurs when there are blocked arteries of the heart.

Angina pectoris results in chest pain due to reduced blood flow. Nonetheless, Angina pectoris is not a heart attack, and it does not signify risks for a heart attack. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any chest pain or discomfort.

Symptoms of Angina Pectoris

• A pressing, crushing pain in the chest or under the breastbone.
• Upper back pain that spreads in the neck, arm, and ear lobes
• Weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Tiredness
• Fainting

Symptoms of Angina in Women

Symptoms of angina in women can be different from angina symptoms that occur in men. It causes delays in seeking treatment. Women may experience:

• Shortness of breath
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Discomfort in the neck, jaw, or back
• Stabbing pain

The Risk Factors of Angina Pectoris

1. Cigarette smoking. It increases the deposition of cholesterol and blocks blood flow. Secondhand smoking can also increase your risk of Angina pectoris.
2. Diabetes. It increases the risk of coronary artery disease and leads to angina and heart attacks. Diabetes can speed up atherosclerosis and raise your cholesterol levels.
3. High blood pressure. It damages arteries by accelerating the hardening arteries. Unhealthy cholesterol can also narrow the arteries and triggers heart-related problems.
4. Family history. A history of coronary artery disease or heart attack increases the risk of developing Angina pectoris.
5. Older age. Men older than 45 and women over 55 have a greater risk than do younger adults.
6. Sedentary lifestyle. It contributes to high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. Talk to your doctor for recommendations of exercise and diet programs.
7. Obesity. It links to high blood cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Weight gain increases your risk of Angina pectoris.
8. Stress. It can increase your risk of angina and heart attacks.

How to Diagnose Angina Pectoris?

1. Electrocardiogram (ECG). It records the electrical activity of the heart and shows abnormal rhythms.
2. Stress test. It checks your heart’s ability to function when under stress. It determines coronary artery disease.
3. Cardiac catheterization. It helps to see the narrowing, blockages, and other problems of arteries.
4. Cardiac MRI. It looks at the amount of blood flow to the heart muscle. It may not be available at all medical centers.
5. Coronary CT scan. It determines the amount of calcium and plaque inside the blood vessels of the heart.

Treatment for Angina Pectoris

Angina Pectoris is preventable by a healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, and exercise. Treatment includes Anti-anginal medications that help alleviate the symptoms. Your doctor may recommend Amlodipine and Lisinopril to help in treating Angina pectoris.