Angina is a type of chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood. It is most often caused by coronary artery disease, a condition in which the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked by plaque buildup.

Angina is not a disease itself but rather a symptom of an underlying heart condition. While some people experience angina only during physical activity or emotional stress, others may develop symptoms more frequently or even while at rest. Because angina can be a warning sign of significant heart disease, it should always be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Signs & Symptoms

Angina can feel different from person to person, but common symptoms include:

• Chest pain, pressure, tightness, squeezing, or burning
• Discomfort that may spread to the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nausea
• Sweating

Symptoms often occur during physical exertion, emotional stress, exposure to cold temperatures, or after a large meal. In some cases, particularly among women, older adults, and people with diabetes, symptoms may be more subtle and may not include classic chest pain.

Seek immediate medical attention if chest pain is severe, occurs at rest, lasts longer than a few minutes, or is accompanied by symptoms that could indicate a heart attack.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing angina begins with a review of your symptoms, medical history, and cardiovascular risk factors. Your provider may perform a physical examination and recommend diagnostic testing to evaluate blood flow to the heart and identify any underlying coronary artery disease. Diagnostic tests may include:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG)
• Stress testing
• Echocardiogram
• Cardiac CT imaging
• Nuclear stress testing
• Cardiac catheterization and coronary angiography

These tests help determine whether reduced blood flow is causing your symptoms and guide the most appropriate treatment plan. Depending on the cause and severity of angina, treatment may include lifestyle changes, medications, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery.