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Angina, also known as angina pectoris, is a condition characterized by chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood. Angina is usually caused by narrowing or blockages in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle.
The most common symptom of angina is chest pain or discomfort that may feel like pressure, squeezing, or a heavy weight on the chest. The pain may also be felt in the arms, neck, jaw, shoulder, or back. Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or lightheadedness.
There are different types of angina, including stable angina, unstable angina, and variant angina. Stable angina is the most common type and occurs during physical activity or emotional stress, and typically goes away with rest. Unstable angina is more severe and can occur at rest, with increasing frequency or duration, and may require emergency treatment. Variant angina is caused by a spasm in the coronary artery, and is usually treated with medications that help to relax the arteries.
The diagnosis of angina is typically made based on a patient's symptoms, medical history, and diagnostic tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), stress test, or cardiac catheterization. Treatment may involve lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and increasing physical activity, as well as medications such as nitroglycerin, beta blockers, or calcium channel blockers. In some cases, procedures such as angioplasty or coronary artery bypass surgery may be necessary to improve blood flow to the heart.
It's important for individuals who experience symptoms of angina to seek medical attention right away, as angina can be a sign of a more serious condition such as a heart attack.