What are the symptoms of angina?

Angina happens when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood for its current workload. The discomfort may spread to the arm, shoulder, neck, jaw, back, or upper abdomen. Some people describe burning, squeezing, or indigestion rather than pain. Breathlessness, sweating, nausea, unusual tiredness, or light-headedness can accompany it. Symptoms may appear with walking, climbing, emotional stress, or cold air and ease with rest, but a new or changing pattern needs medical assessment.

Stop the activity and rest when symptoms begin. If a clinician has prescribed a medicine for attacks, use it exactly as directed and keep a record of the trigger, sensation, duration, and response. Arrange prompt medical review for new chest discomfort, symptoms occurring with less activity, or episodes that are becoming more frequent. Assessment may include a history, examination, blood tests, and heart tests. Managing conditions such as hypertension or high cholesterol may form part of a longer-term plan.

Call emergency services immediately for chest discomfort that is severe, lasts longer than usual, occurs at rest, or does not settle with the prescribed attack plan. Emergency help is also needed for chest symptoms with marked shortness of breath, fainting, sweating, nausea, or pain spreading to the arm, jaw, back, or shoulder. Do not drive yourself, and do not assume indigestion explains unfamiliar chest pressure.

Could my symptoms be angina or another heart problem? Which activity and warning pattern should I record? What should I do during an episode, and how can blood pressure or cholesterol treatment reduce future strain on my heart?