What should you know about a mild angina attack?

Angina is discomfort caused when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood for its demand. It may feel like pressure, squeezing, heaviness or [Chest Tightness](/symptoms/chest-tightness/) and can spread to the arm, shoulder, neck, jaw or back. Breathlessness, sweating, nausea or unusual tiredness may accompany it. Stable angina often follows a predictable trigger such as exertion or emotional strain and eases with rest, but a new, changing or unexplained pattern needs medical review. High blood pressure can contribute to cardiovascular strain; see [Hypertension](/conditions/hypertension/) for context.

Stop the activity, sit or rest, and use prescribed angina medicine exactly as your clinician instructed. Note what brought on the discomfort, how long it lasted and whether it spread or came with breathlessness. Arrange a clinical assessment for new chest symptoms even if they settle. Testing may include an [Electrocardiogram](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/ecg/) and other checks. Take prescribed cardiovascular medicines consistently; do not start or stop blood-pressure or cholesterol treatment without advice.

Call emergency services for chest discomfort that is severe, lasts longer than expected, occurs at rest, is new or worsening, or does not improve with the prescribed plan. Seek immediate help for fainting, marked breathlessness, cold sweating, blue or grey lips, or sudden weakness. Do not drive yourself. A heart attack can resemble angina, and the difference cannot be safely decided from how mild the pain feels.

Is this pattern consistent with angina? Which warning signs require emergency help? Should I have an ECG? How should I use my prescribed medicine, and how do my blood pressure and cholesterol treatments fit together?