Angina: Causes and Common Treatment

07/31/08 Disease Basics

Angina pectoris is the full medical name for chest pain caused by coronary artery disease (CAD). Angina is a symptom that the heart isn't getting as much blood--and therefore not enough oxygen--as it needs. Angina is usually caused a narrowed of blocked cardiac artery.

Typically, angina feels like the chest is being squeezed or is uncomfortably "full." Sometimes, the sensations are felt in the neck, jaw, shoulder, back, or arm.

Angina may be triggered by a burst of energy, for instance, if you run to catch a bus. Exercise, strong emotions, or extreme temperatures can also set off the condition.

Chronic angina is sometimes referred to as stable angina. In a patient with chronic angina, the chest discomfort is predictable and may happen when the person races for the bus or gets very upset. Most cases of chronic angina respond to rest or the use of nitroglycerin. Nitroglycerin relaxes the veins and, to a certain degree, it also relaxes the arteries leading to the heart. Relaxing the veins increases blood flow to the heart and lightens its workload. When cardiac arteries relax, the heart receives more blood.

Nitroglycerin is often administered in the form of a tablet dissolved under the tongue. The drug is also prescribed as a patch, a long acting capsule, liquid sprayed under the tongue, and an ointment. If nitroglycerin is prescribed, your doctor will tell you when to take it and if you can repeat the dosage in the event that your chest pain doesn't respond to medication right away.

Since angina is a sign of increased risk of a heart attack, cardiac arrest, or sudden cardiac death, anyone with chest pain needs to see the doctor for a full evaluation. 

There is also a chronic angina clinical trial accepting participants. This trial will evaluate the effectiveness of an investigational treatment for chronic angina in women. Click here for more information.

Mari S. Gold is has written for The New York Times, American Profile, Relish Magazine, TravelSmart, Indianapolis Monthly, and numerous e-zines. An avid cook and foodie, she contributes restaurant reviews to Zagat Guides and The Vermont News Guide, and is working on a young adult novel with a food theme. Married with grown children and two cats, she divides her time between New York City where she is director of communications for a major health care organization, and Dorset, Vermont.