Can angina be prevented?

Angina is chest discomfort caused when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood for its needs. Narrowed heart arteries are a common cause. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking and inactivity can increase cardiovascular strain. Prevention aims to slow artery disease and reduce the heart’s workload; it does not replace assessment of new chest symptoms.

Attend checks for blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar when advised. Stop smoking with support, choose regular activity suited to your health, and eat a balanced pattern with less highly processed food. Take prescribed medicines consistently and discuss side effects before stopping them. If you already have angina, follow the agreed activity and medication plan, and ask about rehabilitation or a safe exercise programme.

Call emergency services for chest pressure or tightness that is severe, new, worsening, occurs at rest, or does not settle with your prescribed plan. Urgent symptoms may include sweating, nausea, faintness or pain spreading to the arm, jaw, back or shoulder. Do not drive yourself. New exertional discomfort also needs prompt medical review.

Which risk factors should I address first? What activity is safe for me? How should I use my prescribed medicine, and what symptoms mean I need emergency help?