What should you know about no angina?

Angina is discomfort caused when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood, often during exertion. Some people have no typical chest pain, or notice breathlessness, unusual tiredness, nausea, dizziness, or discomfort in the arm, jaw, back, or upper abdomen instead. Other people have no symptoms despite cardiovascular risk. High blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, kidney disease, high cholesterol, and family history can raise concern without causing angina. [Hypertension](/conditions/hypertension/) may be present without a noticeable sensation, so feeling well is not a reliable measure of blood pressure or artery health.

Attend routine checks for blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and kidney health when advised. Take prescribed medicines consistently and discuss side effects before stopping them. Depending on your risk profile, a clinician may discuss [Blood Pressure Medication](/treatments/medical-management/blood-pressure-medication/) or [Statin Therapy](/treatments/medical-management/statin-therapy/). Regular movement, a balanced eating pattern, avoiding tobacco, sleep, and managing stress can support cardiovascular health. If symptoms occur with activity, record what brings them on, how long they last, and what relieves them. An [Electrocardiogram](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/ecg/) may be part of an assessment, but it does not replace clinical judgement.

Call emergency services for new or severe chest pressure, squeezing, or tightness; breathlessness at rest; fainting; cold sweats; or discomfort spreading to the arm, jaw, back, or upper abdomen. Do this even if you have never had angina before or the discomfort is not severe. [Chest Tightness](/symptoms/chest-tightness/) can have several causes, but possible heart-related symptoms should be assessed urgently. Sudden weakness, facial drooping, or trouble speaking is also an emergency.

Ask how your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, family history, and symptoms affect your cardiovascular risk. Ask whether you need an ECG or another assessment, what targets apply to your treatment, and which symptoms should lead you to seek urgent help.