Angina

Angina is chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood, most often due to narrowed coronary arteries from underlying coronary artery disease. It typically presents as a squeezing, pressure-like, or heavy sensation in the chest that is triggered by physical exertion or emotional stress and relieved by rest, a pattern known as stable angina. When chest pain occurs unpredictably at rest or with minimal exertion, it is termed unstable angina and represents a medical emergency signalling a high risk of impending heart attack. Angina itself is a symptom of underlying heart disease rather than a disease in its own right, and its presence warrants thorough cardiac evaluation. With appropriate treatment of the underlying coronary disease, angina symptoms can often be well controlled.

The most common symptoms include: Chest tightness; pressure; or squeezing sensation; pain radiating to the arm. Early recognition is key to prompt diagnosis and effective treatment.

No, Angina is not contagious. It cannot spread through casual contact. However, certain risk factors and genetic predispositions may increase susceptibility.

Treatment options include: Treatment includes fast-acting nitrates to relieve acute episodes and longer-term medications such as beta-blockers; calcium channel blockers; and statins to reduce the frequency of attacks and manage underlying disease. Lifestyle modification including regular exercise within safe limits. Treatment should always be guided by a qualified Cardiology specialist. Do not self-medicate.

While Angina cannot always be fully prevented, several measures can reduce risk: Managing blood pressure; cholesterol; and blood sugar levels.

Consult a Cardiology specialist if symptoms persist for more than a few days, worsen despite home care, or significantly affect your daily activities. Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes.