|  | Conditions Treatments | Heart Disease

Unstable Angina Symptoms

Angina is actually a symptom of ischemic heart disease, which is a condition caused by the narrowing of the arteries of the heart. Angina, also called angina pectoris, is the term for the chest pain or discomfort felt by patients with ischemia. Angina is classified as either stable or unstable. Though the symptoms for both are similar, unstable angina is more serious.

  1. Causes

    • Angina is typically caused by coronary heart disease, also known as ischemic heart disease. These conditions are caused by atherosclerosis, which is the build-up of a fatty substance in the arteries. This build-up causes the arteries to become more narrow, restricting the blood flow and also the amount of oxygen reaching the heart. When the heart does not have enough oxygen, you may feel pain or discomfort in your chest, which is angina.

    Stable Vs. Unstable

    • Stable angina means that you feel the chest pain or discomfort during periods of increased activity. Stable angina occurs when exercising or climbing long flights of stairs, because during these times your body needs more oxygen but the heart is not getting it. Unstable angina occurs during periods of mild exertion or even at rest. Unstable angina can increase in frequency or become more severe without other warning signs. Unstable angina is an acute symptom, meaning it can progress rapidly, and requires immediate medical attention.

    Chest Pain

    • Chest pain, pressure or discomfort is the most common symptom of angina. The pain may feel like a tightening, squeezing, crushing, burning, choking or aching. If you have had stable angina and your pain begins to feel different or you feel it during times of rest, it could be developing into unstable angina and you should seek medical attention.

    Other Pain

    • The pain or discomfort felt by angina may radiate to other parts of the body. The pain may be felt in the shoulder, neck, jaw or back.

    Shortness of Breath

    • Another common symptom of unstable angina is shortness of breath. This is due to the lack of oxygenated blood reaching the heart and being distributed throughout the body.

    Complications

    • If those with unstable angina do not seek medical attention and proceed with treatment, the condition can worsen. Unstable angina can lead to a heart attack, so this condition and the symptoms should be taken seriously. Some lifestyle changes can help to prevent angina symptoms. Your doctor may recommend you lose weight, quit smoking and change your diet to control your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Heart Disease - Related Articles