What is the role of cholesterol in angina?

Angina is chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the blood flow to the heart is reduced. It is a symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD), which is caused by the buildup of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the heart.

Cholesterol is a type of fat that is essential for many bodily functions. However, high levels of cholesterol can lead to the formation of plaque in the arteries, which can narrow the arteries and reduce blood flow to the heart. This can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and other symptoms of angina.

In addition, cholesterol can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, which is a hardening and narrowing of the arteries. Atherosclerosis can lead to angina and other serious health problems, such as heart attack and stroke.

For people with angina, it is important to control their cholesterol levels through diet, exercise, and medication. By lowering cholesterol levels, it is possible to reduce the risk of angina and other heart problems.