Angina causes and symptoms explained

Coronary artery narrowing is a frequent underlying cause, while artery spasm and disease of the small coronary vessels are other possibilities. Symptoms alone cannot show which mechanism is responsible.

Angina commonly presents with pressure, squeezing, fullness, heaviness, burning, or tightness in the chest. Discomfort may extend to one or both arms, the shoulders, neck, jaw, back, or upper abdomen. Breathlessness, nausea, sweating, dizziness, and unusual fatigue may occur alongside it.

Exertion, emotional stress, cold conditions, or a heavy meal may provoke a predictable episode because they increase cardiac demand. Presentation can vary, so the absence of dramatic pain does not exclude a heart problem.

Stop exertion and rest when symptoms begin. Use your personally prescribed angina medicine according to your action plan; never take another person's medicine. Arrange medical assessment for a first episode or a recurring pattern, even if discomfort settles.

Tell the clinician what the sensation felt like, where it travelled, what triggered it, how it ended, and which accompanying symptoms occurred. An electrocardiogram and other tests may be chosen according to this clinical picture.

Call UAE emergency services for chest discomfort that is severe, persistent, occurs at rest, or is new or different from an established angina pattern. Immediate help is also warranted for fainting, severe breathing difficulty, cold sweating, confusion, profound weakness, or spreading pain.

A change in pattern can represent a more sudden interruption of heart blood flow. Do not wait to see whether symptoms become typical and do not drive yourself when seriously unwell.

Ask what might be restricting coronary flow, whether your symptom pattern is stable, and which tests could change management. Confirm how to use prescribed medicines, what activity is suitable, which cardiovascular risks need attention, and when to seek urgent help.