Suspected angina

Angina is chest discomfort caused by the heart muscle not receiving enough oxygen-rich blood for its workload. It may feel like pressure, squeezing, heaviness or tightness, and can spread to the arm, shoulder, neck, jaw or back. It often appears during exertion or emotional stress and settles with rest, but symptoms can be less typical, especially in women, older adults and people with diabetes. Chest tightness has many possible causes, so the sensation alone cannot confirm angina.

High blood pressure and other cardiovascular risk factors can increase concern, but a normal-looking episode should not be used to dismiss new or changing symptoms. Assessment may include an examination, blood tests and an Electrocardiogram.

Stop the activity that brings on the discomfort and sit somewhere safe. Arrange prompt clinical assessment for new, recurring or exertional chest symptoms, and record what triggered each episode, how long it lasted and what relieved it. Do not exercise through chest discomfort or drive yourself if symptoms are active. Take prescribed medicines exactly as directed, but do not start someone else’s medicine.

A clinician may discuss blood pressure control, cholesterol management and other ways to reduce strain on the heart. Blood Pressure Medication or Statin Therapy may be appropriate for some people after assessment, but treatment depends on the individual.

Call emergency services for chest discomfort that is severe, lasts longer than usual, occurs at rest, or does not settle promptly, especially with breathlessness, sweating, nausea, fainting, marked weakness or pain spreading to the arm, jaw or back. Treat sudden or worsening symptoms as an emergency because a heart attack can resemble angina. Do not wait for a routine appointment when these warning signs are present.

Ask which tests are needed, whether an Electrocardiogram is suitable, how to recognise your personal emergency symptoms, and how blood pressure, cholesterol, activity and medicines should be managed while assessment is underway.