Angina is a term meaning chest pain that is caused by a lack of oxygen to the heart tissues. Some people describe angina as chest pressure or discomfort. It may also be felt in the shoulders, jaw, back, abdomen, and arms. Medical professionals put angina into two categories depending on the symptoms experienced. This helps to determine potential causes and appropriate treatment.
Stable Angina
Stable angina is chest pain that is experienced when the heart works harder than usual. The chest pain/discomfort is typically relieved with rest and usually lasts a short time (5 minutes or less). People with stable angina may experience reoccurring episodes of pain that are similar in nature. Possible triggers include exercise, stress, and smoking.
If diagnosed with stable angina, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, stress management. Certain medications help, like nitroglycerin, a fast-acting medicine that relaxes the blood vessels to increase blood flow to the heart.
Lifestyle modifications are also important in managing stable angina. Eat a heart healthy diet low in sodium, trans fats and saturated fats and make sure to include plenty of fruits and vegetables along with whole grains. For more tips on heart healthy eating provided by the American Heart Association, click here. You should also talk to your doctor about whether it is safe for you to engage in physical activity and exercise.
Unstable Angina
Unlike stable angina, unstable angina is unpredictable and can come on suddenly – often during times of rest. It is typically caused by a decrease in blood flow to the heart due to narrowing or blockage of the arteries. Unstable angina can last for longer periods of time and is not relieved with rest. It may become worse over time. Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating, nausea, and vomiting. Sudden and persistent chest pain/discomfort could be a sign of a heart attack, and anyone experiencing these symptoms should call 911 immediately.
Unstable angina is treated as a medical emergency and may require medication, hospitalization and surgery. Following a heart-healthy lifestyle (see above) can help to prevent unstable angina. In addition, the American Heart Association recommends getting 150 minutes of moderate physical activity weekly as well as eating a diet low in sodium and unhealthy fats and high in fiber including fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
If you have stable angina, your symptoms are likely predictable, occurring during times of increased stress or physical activity. You and your doctor should work together to make a plan to manage your symptoms through medication and lifestyle including quitting smoking, managing stress levels, and following a heart-healthy eating plan. However, if you experience symptoms of unstable angina (sudden, persistent chest pain/discomfort that is not relieved with rest), call 911 right away.
Check out our related article, “Stoke Prevention and Recognition.”