Heart-related chest pain, often known as angina, causes discomfort or pressure in the chest as a result of decreased blood supply to the heart. It's critical to understand its symptoms, triggers, and when to seek quick medical assistance. Angina is characterized by a squeezing, tightness, or pressure in the chest. It's been described as a heavy weight or a scorching sensation by some. It is most commonly found behind the breastbone, but it can spread to the neck, mouth, arms (typically the left), back, or even the stomach. The sensation usually lasts a few minutes and is caused by physical exertion or stress. It goes away with rest or medicine. Angina can be triggered by physical exercise, emotional stress, exposure to severe temperatures, big meals, or smoking. During these periods, the heart requires extra oxygen, and a blockage in the arteries might cause chest pain. Stable angina (predictable, triggered by certain activities), unstable angina (occurs even at rest, more severe and unpredictable), variant angina (due to coronary artery spasm, often at rest), and microvascular angina (affects smaller arteries, more common in women) are the different types of angina. When to Seek Help: Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience chest pain or discomfort that lasts more than a few minutes, feels crushing or severe, spreads to your arms, neck, jaw, or back, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or lightheadedness. Angina treatment seeks to ease symptoms, avoid a heart attack, and lower the risk of consequences. A balanced diet, frequent exercise, smoking cessation, and stress management are all important lifestyle modifications. Nitroglycerin, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and aspirin are medications that can help manage symptoms and prevent problems. Procedures such as angioplasty or bypass surgery may be indicated in some circumstances to enhance blood flow to the heart. Prevention: Managing risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, and living a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of having angina greatly. If you suspect heart-related chest pain, always visit a healthcare expert for thorough examination and treatment. Early intervention and lifestyle changes can improve heart health and lower the chance of problems.
