Anginas is a type of chest pain that results from reduced blood flow to the heart. Also called angina pectoris, this condition could be marked by recurring pain that subsides with treatment or new pain that persists. Anginas are somewhat common but they can be difficult to differentiate from other types of chest pain Port Saint Lucie. To help you, here is a quick look at anginas.
What Causes Angina?
As mentioned, anginas are caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. The muscles in your heart survive and function on oxygen, which is supplied by your blood. If blood flow to your heart drops, such as due to plaque deposits caused by coronary artery disease (CAD), you may experience chest pain when your body’s demand for oxygen rises. This includes periods of exertion such as exercise.
Symptoms of Angina
The most classic symptom of angina is chest discomfort or pain that feels like squeezing, pressure, fullness, or burning. Sometimes, the pain can extend to the back, shoulder, jaw, or neck. It can also be accompanied by other symptoms like:
- Sweating
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
Anginas will vary in type, duration, and severity. If you experience new or different signs, they may be symptoms of a heart attack or unstable angina, which is dangerous. You should also call your doctor if you experience worsening symptoms.
Symptoms of Angina in women
Symptoms of angina in women can significantly differ from typical angina signs. In addition to chest pain, women may also experience the following:
- Abdominal pain
- Shortness of breath
- Stabbing pain in the chest instead of pressure
- Nausea
- Discomfort in the back, jaw, teeth, or neck
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should call 911 if you experience chest pain that lasts longer than several minutes and does not go away when you take your angina medication or rest. It could be a sign of a heart attack. Similarly, get immediate medical attention, if, in addition to chest pain, you experience the following:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sweating
- Shortness of breath
- Continued abdominal pain
- An impending sense of doom
- Fainting spells
- Pain that extends from your chest to your back, arm, shoulder, and even jaw and teeth
Preventing Anginas
One of the best ways to beat heart-related problems like anginas is to make some lifestyle changes that lower your risk of disease. Some of these changes include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Exercising regularly
- Eating a healthy diet
- Quitting smoking
- Limiting or avoiding alcohol
- Practicing stress management
- Keeping up on recommended vaccines
How Is Chest Pain Treated?
The treatment regimen described by your doctor will depend on what is causing your chest pain. Most doctors will recommend lifestyle changes alongside other interventions like medication. If your chest pain is being caused by advanced coronary artery disease, you may require a cardiac catheterization procedure like an atherectomy or balloon angioplasty.
Chest pain can be very worrying, especially when you do not know what’s causing it. If you believe your chest pain is heart-related or you are experiencing the worrying signs discussed above, contact TLC Medical Group Inc. to arrange a consultation. Anthony Lewis, MD, FACC, a cardiovascular expert, will inform you more about your diagnosis and treatment options.
