Angina Pectoris
Angina Pectoris is described as severe chest pain that results from insufficient blood flow to the heart. Angina pectoris may not result in permanent damage to the heart muscle (this may not be true for severe angina pectoris) and may be relieved by rest or the use of nitroglycerin placed under the tongue.
Symptoms – May include tightness or pressure in the chest that may radiate to the left shoulder and arm, or possibly the neck and jaw. Other symptoms may include difficulty breathing, anxiety, sweating, or pale skin.
Cause – Insufficient blood flow to the heart may be due to hardening of the arteries (Arteriosclerosis) or plaqueing of the arteries (Atherosclerosis), or spasm of the arteries. Other causes may include Anemia, rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), or other heart disease.
Risk factors include smoking, obesity, diet high in fat, refined sugar, and salt, lack of physical activity, family history of heart disease or Diabetes Mellitus.
Diagnosis – Observation of the aforementioned symptoms requires immediate medical evaluation. The evaluation may include physical examination, blood tests, ECG (electrocardiogram), or an angiogram (study of the flow of blood through the vessels).
Treatment – During an attack of angina pectoris, a person should rest and take nitroglycerin under the tongue. This may be enough to eliminate the symptoms. Depending on possible underlying conditions, other treatment such as balloon angioplasty or other surgeries may be recommended, or certain medications (beta-blockers, daily aspirin) may be needed.