What should you know about chest discomfort angina?

Angina happens when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood for its workload. Discomfort may feel like pressure, squeezing, heaviness, burning or tightness rather than a sharp pain. It can spread to the arm, shoulder, neck, jaw or back, and may occur with breathlessness, sweating, nausea or unusual tiredness. A person may have angina without describing the sensation as pain. High blood pressure can increase strain on the heart; learn more about [Hypertension](/conditions/hypertension/).

Stable symptoms often follow a predictable pattern, such as during walking or climbing stairs, while symptoms that are new, worsening, longer-lasting or present at rest need prompt medical attention. [Chest Tightness](/symptoms/chest-tightness/) is a symptom description, not a diagnosis.

Stop the activity, sit upright and note what you were doing, how the sensation felt, how long it lasted and whether it spread. If a clinician has prescribed medicine for angina, use it exactly as directed. Arrange a medical assessment for recurring discomfort; evaluation may include an examination, blood pressure checks and an [Electrocardiogram](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/ecg/). Treatment may involve lifestyle changes and medicines such as [Blood Pressure Medication](/treatments/medical-management/blood-pressure-medication/) or [Statin Therapy](/treatments/medical-management/statin-therapy/), depending on the findings.

Call emergency services immediately for chest pressure or heaviness that is severe, new, persistent or returning, particularly with breathlessness, fainting, cold sweating, marked weakness, nausea, or discomfort spreading to the arm, jaw, neck or back. Do not drive yourself. Symptoms can be serious even when they are not described as pain.

Ask what pattern your symptoms suggest, which tests are appropriate, how to use any prescribed rescue medicine, and which activities or warning signs should prompt emergency help.