10 Angina Pectoris Symptoms

By lynda

Reviewed: dr. vanta

Article Sources

Article Sources

• 1. 1. Angina Pectoris.' Johns Hopkins Medicine, Based in Baltimore, Maryland, www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/angina-pectoris

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Angina pectoris is also known as stable angina. If the heart muscle does not receive the blood and oxygen it needs to function properly, it can result in chest pain or discomfort. This is known as angina pectoris and is typically a result of coronary artery disease or ischemic heart disease, where a narrowing in one or more of the main arteries has restricted blood flow.¹1. Angina Pectoris.’ Johns Hopkins Medicine, Based in Baltimore, Maryland, www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/angina-pectoris

Stable angina is different from unstable angina, usually occurring during periods of increased demand, such as physical exertion, whereas unstable angina can occur at rest or with very little physical exertion.

Chest Pain

The chest pain associated with angina pectoris has been described as a dull pain, described as tightness, pressure, heaviness or squeezing in the chest. It typically comes on soon after starting physical activity. It's usually predictable in terms of its onset and the type of pain experienced.

The pain usually resolves within 5 minutes, and this symptom improves with rest or upon taking prescribed medication, such as glyceryl trinitrate. This drug is sprayed under the tongue at the onset of pain, and it works by widening the arteries to increase blood flow to the heart.