What should you know about EKG angina pectoris?

Angina may feel like pressure, squeezing, heaviness or tightness in the chest. Discomfort can travel to an arm, shoulder, neck, jaw or back and may come with breathlessness, sweating, nausea or unusual tiredness. It often follows exertion or emotional strain and eases with rest, but patterns vary.

An ECG records the heart’s electrical activity and may show changes that help assessment. A normal result does not by itself explain every episode, so clinicians may combine it with symptoms, examination and other tests. Hypertension can contribute to cardiovascular strain and is one factor a clinician may review.

Arrange medical assessment for new, recurring or changing chest discomfort. Note what brings it on, how long it lasts, where it spreads and what relieves it. Take prescribed medicines exactly as directed; treatment may include blood pressure medication or statin therapy when appropriate. Do not self-diagnose chest pain from an ECG result.

Call emergency services immediately for chest discomfort that is severe, prolonged, occurs at rest, or does not settle promptly, especially with breathlessness, fainting, sweating, nausea or pain spreading to the arm or jaw. Stop exertion and follow any personal emergency plan while waiting. Do not drive yourself.

Could this pattern be angina or another cause? What did my ECG show? What activity limits and emergency instructions apply to me? Which risk factors should we address, and when should my treatment be reviewed?