Angina is a type of chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle doesnt receive enough oxygen-rich blood. It is not a disease but a symptom and a warning sign of heart disease. Angina is usually caused by the arteries supplying blood to the heart muscles becoming narrowed or blocked by fatty deposits. There are two types of angina:

• Stable angina: This is the most common type of angina. It occurs when the heart muscle needs more blood than its getting, such as during physical activity or when experiencing strong emotions. The pain or discomfort is usually predictable and goes away with rest or medication.

• Unstable angina: This type of angina is more serious and unpredictable. It can occur at rest and may not have a trigger. The pain or discomfort is typically severe and lasts longer than stable angina, maybe 20 minutes or longer. The pain doesnt go away with rest or the usual angina medications. Unstable angina is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention.

Angina can be a warning sign of a heart attack, and severe or unexpected angina signals a heart attack and needs immediate medical care. The chest pain that occurs with angina can make doing some activities, such as walking, uncomfortable. However, the most dangerous complication is a heart attack. Warning signs and symptoms of a heart attack include pressure, fullness, or a squeezing pain in the center of the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes, pain extending beyond the chest to the shoulder, arm, back, or even to the teeth and jaw, and fainting.

Treatment for angina usually involves taking several different medicines for the rest of ones life, such as medicine to treat attacks when they happen, prevent further attacks, and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. If medicines are not suitable or do not help, an operation to improve blood flow to the heart muscles may be recommended. Making healthy lifestyle changes, such as having a balanced diet, cutting down on alcohol, stopping smoking if you smoke, losing weight if youre overweight, and exercising regularly, can help reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.