Angina is a type of chest pain that occurs when there is reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. It is usually caused by coronary artery disease, where the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed and cannot deliver enough oxygenated blood to the heart muscle. Angina is typically described as a pressure, squeezing, or burning sensation in the chest that can also be felt in the arms, neck, jaw, or back.
There are two main types of angina: stable angina and unstable angina. Stable angina is predictable, occurring when the heart is working harder than usual, such as during exercise or stress. Unstable angina, on the other hand, is unpredictable and can occur at rest or with minimal exertion. Unstable angina is considered a medical emergency as it may indicate an impending heart attack.
In the healthcare industry, angina is an important symptom to evaluate in patients with suspected heart disease. It is assessed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as electrocardiography (ECG) and cardiac imaging. Treatment for angina may include lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, reducing stress, and increasing physical activity, as well as medications such as nitroglycerin, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers. In more severe cases, invasive procedures such as coronary angioplasty or bypass surgery may be necessary.
Angina
Health Care Term
Angina is a type of chest pain that occurs when there is reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. It is usually caused by coronary artery disease, where the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed and cannot deliver enough oxygenated blood to the heart muscle. Angina is typically described as a pressure, squeezing, or burning sensation in the chest that can also be felt in the arms, neck, jaw, or back.
There are two main types of angina: stable angina and unstable angina. Stable angina is predictable, occurring when the heart is working harder than usual, such as during exercise or stress. Unstable angina, on the other hand, is unpredictable and can occur at rest or with minimal exertion. Unstable angina is considered a medical emergency as it may indicate an impending heart attack.
In the healthcare industry, angina is an important symptom to evaluate in patients with suspected heart disease. It is assessed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as electrocardiography (ECG) and cardiac imaging. Treatment for angina may include lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, reducing stress, and increasing physical activity, as well as medications such as nitroglycerin, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers. In more severe cases, invasive procedures such as coronary angioplasty or bypass surgery may be necessary.