Angina Pectoris

Definition:
Angina Pectoris is a medical condition characterized by chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. It is typically a symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD), which occurs when the blood vessels supplying the heart become partially or completely blocked due to a buildup of plaque.

Causes:

Angina Pectoris is primarily caused by atherosclerosis, which is the narrowing or hardening of the coronary arteries due to the accumulation of fatty deposits (plaque). This obstructs the blood flow to the heart, resulting in chest pain and other associated symptoms.

Symptoms:

The most common symptom of Angina Pectoris is chest pain or discomfort, which is often described as a sensation of pressure, tightness, or squeezing in the chest. The pain may radiate to the neck, jaw, shoulders, arms, or back. Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and sweating.

Types:

1. Stable Angina:
This is the most common type of angina, characterized by predictable chest pain triggered by activities that increase the heart’s demand for oxygen, such as exercise or emotional stress. The pain usually resolves with rest or medication.

2. Unstable Angina:
Unstable angina doesn’t follow a regular pattern and can occur even at rest or with minimal physical exertion. It is more severe and unpredictable than stable angina and requires immediate medical attention as it may indicate an impending heart attack.

3. Variant (Prinzmetal’s) Angina:
This type is caused by a temporary spasm of the coronary arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart. It often occurs at rest and is unrelated to physical exertion. Variant angina is rare but can be severe.

Diagnosis:

To diagnose Angina Pectoris, a healthcare provider may perform various tests, including:

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Records the electrical activity of the heart.
  • Stress Test: Monitors the heart during physical activity.
  • Coronary Angiography: Uses dye and X-rays to visualize the coronary arteries.
  • Blood Tests: Check for cardiac enzymes and other markers of heart damage.

Treatment:

Angina Pectoris can be managed through various approaches, including:

  • Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporating a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, stress reduction, and weight management.
  • Medications: Nitroglycerin, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, aspirin, and cholesterol-lowering drugs.
  • Cardiac Procedures: Angioplasty, stenting, and bypass surgery may be recommended in severe cases to restore blood flow to the heart.

Prevention:

Preventive measures for Angina Pectoris include maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol, regular check-ups, and adherence to prescribed medications.