Angina Symptoms and Care: Recognizing and Managing Chest Pain

Angina is a type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. It often serves as a warning sign of underlying heart disease. Early recognition and proper care can prevent severe complications like heart attacks.

1. Common Symptoms of Angina:

  • Chest pain or pressure, often triggered by physical exertion or stress.

  • Pain that may radiate to the arms, neck, jaw, or back.

  • Shortness of breath and fatigue.

  • Nausea, dizziness, or sweating.

2. Types of Angina:

  • Stable Angina: Occurs predictably with activity and improves with rest or medication.

  • Unstable Angina: Happens unexpectedly and may indicate a heart attack risk.

  • Variant(Prinzmetal’s) Angina: Caused by spasms in coronary arteries, often at rest.

3. Treatment and Care:

  • Medications: Nitroglycerin, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and antiplatelet drugs.

  • Lifestyle Modifications: Healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and quitting smoking.

  • Medical Procedures: Angioplasty, stent placement, or bypass surgery in severe cases.

4. When to Seek Emergency Care:

  • Chest pain lasting more than a few minutes.

  • Pain that worsens or occurs at rest.

  • Symptoms accompanied by shortness of breath, nausea, or fainting.

Conclusion:
Recognizing angina symptoms and taking preventive measures can significantly reduce heart disease risks. Proper management through medication, lifestyle changes, and timely medical care ensures better heart health and overall well-being.