Angina

Angina (or angina pectoris) is the term for chest pain or discomfort that occurs when your heart is not getting enough oxygen-rich blood. It is not a disease itself but a warning symptom of an underlying heart problem. It can also be a symptom of a heart attack.

Angina is most often caused by narrowed or blocked arteries in the heart (coronary arteries). This narrowing is usually due to a build-up of fatty deposits called plaque. When you are physically active or stressed, your heart needs more oxygen. If the arteries are narrowed, your heart can’t get enough blood, which causes angina symptoms.

• Chest pain or discomfort (pressure, tightness, or squeezing)
• Pain spreading to the arms, neck, jaw, shoulder, or back
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating
• Nausea
• Fatigue

Angina often happens during activity or stress and goes away with rest. If you have chest pain that lasts more than a few minutes or doesn’t go away with rest, you should seek medical help right away, as this may suggest a more unstable (serious) version of angina.