Understanding Angina: Symptoms, Risks, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What is Angina?
Angina is not a disease but a warning sign of an underlying Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) or related conditions. It refers to a painful and tight sensation in the chest, caused when the heart muscles do not receive enough oxygen-rich blood. Recognizing and managing angina is critical to preventing severe complications such as a heart attack.

Symptoms of Angina

Angina symptoms may vary in intensity and location, but common signs include:

• Chest pain or discomfort radiating to the arms, shoulders, neck, jaw, or back.
• A sensation of pressure, squeezing, burning, or tightness in the chest.
• Heartburn or indigestion-like pain in the abdomen.
• Fatigue, weakness, or dizziness.
• Shortness of breath and sweating.
• Light-headedness or confusion.

Types of Angina

1. Stable Angina:
   • Triggered by physical exertion or stress.
   • Predictable, short-lasting, and usually relieved by rest or angina medications.
2. Unstable Angina:
   • Occurs unpredictably, even at rest.
   • More severe, longer-lasting, and does not respond well to medication.
   • It is a medical emergency & may lead to a heart attack if untreated.

Risk Factors for Angina

Several factors increase the likelihood of developing angina, including:

• Pre-existing conditions like CHD or Coronary Microvascular Disease (MVD).
• Unhealthy cholesterol levels and high blood pressure.
• Smoking and exposure to tobacco products.
• Diabetes or insulin resistance.
• Being overweight or obese.
• Metabolic syndrome and lack of physical activity.
• Unhealthy dietary habits.
• Increasing age: Men over 45 years & women over 55 years are at higher risk.

Diagnosis of Angina

Diagnosing angina involves various tests to determine the severity and underlying cause:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Records the heart’s electrical activity to detect abnormalities or irregularities.
• Stress Test: Evaluates heart function during physical exertion.
• Echocardiogram: Assesses heart structure and motion.
• Nuclear Stress Test: Tracks blood flow to the heart using radioactive dye.
• Chest X-ray: Identifies abnormalities in the heart & lungs.
• Blood Tests: Detect specific heart enzymes related to damage.
• Coronary Angiography: Uses dye and X-rays to visualize coronary arteries.
• Cardiac CT Scan: Offers detailed imaging of the heart & blood vessels.

Treatment Options for Angina

1. Prevention and Lifestyle Changes
Preventive measures and healthy habits play a significant role in managing angina:

• Control blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
• Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Adopt a heart-healthy diet, rich in vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
• Incorporate regular physical activity approved by your doctor.
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation.

2. Medical Management
Medications are often prescribed to reduce symptoms and prevent complications:

• Nitrates: Relieve chest pain by relaxing blood vessels.
• Aspirin or Antiplatelet Drugs: Prevent blood clots.
• Beta Blockers & Calcium Channel Blockers: Control heart rate & blood pressure.
• Statins: Lower cholesterol levels.

3. Surgical and Interventional Procedures
For severe cases & procedures to improve blood flow may be necessary:

• Angioplasty & Stenting: Opens blocked arteries & keeps them open.
• Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery: Creates a bypass around blocked arteries to restore blood flow.