Angina is a type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscles. Recognising the early signs of angina and seeking timely medical attention is crucial for preventing more severe heart conditions such as heart attacks.
In a study published in the Journal of Women’s Health, researchers followed 2,006 participants aged 50 to 89 years. At the beginning of the study, 61 men (about 7%) and 142 women (about 12%) were diagnosed with angina. After an average follow-up period of 13 years, a significant portion of the participants had passed away: 59% of the men (485) and 47% of the women (557). Among these deaths, Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) was a major cause, responsible for 21% of the deaths in men (103) and 19% in women (104).
This highlights the importance of diagnosing angina early, which can be enabled by identifying the early signs and knowing ways to manage and prevent this condition.
What Is Angina?
Talking to the Onlymyhealth team, Dr Amit Bhushan Sharma, Cardiologist, Paras Hospital, Gurgaon said, “Angina is not a disease itself but a symptom of an underlying heart problem, usually Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). CAD occurs when the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscles, become narrowed or blocked due to a buildup of plaque. This reduces blood flow and oxygen to the heart muscles, causing chest pain or discomfort.”
Types of Angina
According to Dr Sharma, there are two main types of angina:
- Stable Angina: This is the most common type and occurs during physical exertion or stress. The pain usually lasts a few minutes and can be relieved by rest or medication.
- Unstable Angina: This is more severe and can occur even at rest. It may last longer, be more intense, and is not relieved by rest or medication. Unstable angina is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.
Importance of Early Diagnosis
The British Heart Foundation stated that diagnosing angina early is crucial for several reasons:
- Preventing Heart Attacks: Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent a heart attack, which occurs when the blood flow to a part of the heart is completely blocked.
- Managing Symptoms: Proper management of angina can reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms, improving the quality of life.
- Preventing Progression of CAD: Early intervention can slow or stop the progression of coronary artery disease, reducing the risk of serious complications.
- Guiding Treatment Plans: Identifying the cause and severity of angina helps healthcare providers develop an effective treatment plan, which may include lifestyle changes, medications, or procedures like angioplasty or bypass surgery.
Early Signs of Angina
Recognising the early signs of angina is essential for seeking prompt medical attention. Dr Sharma noted, “Experiencing a sensation of heaviness in the chest that spreads to the jaw, neck, left arm, or back is a common indicator of angina.” However, many conditions can cause such a sensation. To differentiate it from angina, Dr Sharma listed a few pointers:
- For diabetics experiencing acidity, it's crucial not to dismiss it as merely gas-related; a cardiac issue should be ruled out first.
- For elderly individuals or diabetics who complain of shortness of breath, it shouldn't be automatically assumed to be asthma, as asthma typically develops in adolescence and not in older age.
- To determine whether shortness of breath is due to a cardiac issue, observe how it changes with posture. If lying down worsens the shortness of breath and sitting up relieves it, this is a classic sign of cardiac angina. In such cases, you may also notice swelling in the abdomen or legs, further indicating a potential heart problem.
“Understanding the symptoms of angina is essential for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment,” he underscored, listing the primary symptoms of angina:
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Heaviness
- Burning sensation
- Squeezing feeling
- Discomfort
Dr Sharma concluded by vouching for the importance of scheduling regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your heart health and manage any risk factors. Early diagnosis of angina is critical for preventing more serious heart conditions and improving the quality of life. By recognising the early signs and making heart-healthy lifestyle changes, you can manage angina effectively and reduce the risk of severe complications. If you experience any symptoms of angina, seek medical attention promptly. Your heart health is in your hands, and early intervention can make all the difference.