Types of Angina and How to Recognise Them Early

What is Angina?

Angina is a type of chest pain that happens when your heart does not get enough oxygen-rich blood. Often, people describe angina as pressure, squeezing, or tightness in the chest. Sometimes, the pain can spread to your shoulders, arms, neck, or back. Because angina can be a sign of heart disease, it is important to know its symptoms and causes. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), heart disease is a leading cause of death worldwide.

Types of Angina

There are different types of angina. Each type has its own features. Knowing the differences can help you understand your risk and treatment options.

Stable Angina: This is the most common type. It usually happens during physical activity or stress. The pain often goes away with rest or medicine.

Unstable Angina: This type is more serious. It can happen at rest or with little effort. The pain may last longer and does not go away easily. Unstable angina is a medical emergency.

Variant (Prinzmetal’s) Angina: This rare type happens when the arteries spasm. It often occurs at night or early morning.

Common Symptoms of Angina

Recognizing the signs of angina can help you get care quickly. While chest pain is the main symptom, others may also appear. For example, you might feel discomfort in your arms, neck, jaw, or back. In addition, you may notice:

Shortness of breath

Fatigue

Nausea

Dizziness

Cold sweat

Sometimes, angina symptoms can be mild. However, if you notice new or worsening chest pain, seek help right away.

Causes and Risk Factors

Angina usually happens because of reduced blood flow to the heart. Most often, this is due to narrowed or blocked arteries. Several risk factors can increase your chance of developing angina. These include:

High blood pressure

High cholesterol

Smoking

Diabetes

Obesity

Family history of heart disease

Lack of exercise

Older age

Because these factors can add up, making healthy choices is important for prevention.

How Angina is Diagnosed

If you have chest pain, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they may do a physical exam. To find the cause, your doctor might order tests such as:

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) to check your heart’s rhythm

Stress test to see how your heart works during activity

Blood tests to look for heart damage

Imaging tests like echocardiogram or coronary angiography

These tests help your doctor decide the best treatment for you.

Treatment Options for Angina

Treating angina aims to reduce pain and lower the risk of heart attack. Your doctor may suggest one or more of these options:

Medicines: Drugs like nitroglycerin, beta-blockers, or aspirin can help control symptoms and prevent problems.

Lifestyle changes: Eating healthy, quitting smoking, and staying active are key steps.

Procedures: In some cases, you may need a stent or bypass surgery to open blocked arteries.

Because each person is different, your doctor will choose the best plan for you.

Lifestyle Tips and Prevention

Making healthy choices can help prevent angina or keep it from getting worse. For example, you can:

Eat a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

Exercise regularly, as advised by your doctor

Maintain a healthy weight

Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke

Manage stress with relaxation techniques

Take your medicines as prescribed

Even small changes can make a big difference over time.

When to Seek Medical Help

Sometimes, angina can signal a heart attack. If you have chest pain that lasts more than a few minutes, or if it gets worse, call emergency services right away. Also, seek help if you have:

Severe shortness of breath

Fainting or sudden weakness

Pain that spreads to your jaw, neck, or arm

Quick action can save your life.

If you live in a city with high air pollution or limited access to care, take extra steps to protect your heart. Always follow your doctor’s advice and keep regular check-ups.

Consult a cardiologist for personalized advice if you experience symptoms of angina.