Angina
Angina
Angina is a type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. It’s a common symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD) and can be a warning sign of an underlying heart condition.
Angina affects many Australians, with coronary heart disease being the leading cause of death, affecting more than 1.2 million people across the country (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2024).
In Australia, over 54,000 people experience a heart attack every year, many of whom report angina as a symptom (Heart Research Australia, 2005). Early detection and management are crucial for reducing the risk of complications like heart attacks and improving overall heart health.
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Things you want to know
Angina typically presents as discomfort or pain, often described as squeezing, pressure, or tightness in the chest. It may radiate to the arms, neck, jaw, or back. It can also present in unusual ways, such as breathlessness. The pain can last a few minutes and is often triggered by physical exertion or emotional stress, subsiding with rest. For more information or to discuss angina symptoms, please consult with our highly qualified expert team of cardiologists.
Angina typically results from reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, usually due to a narrowed or blocked coronary artery from plaque buildup (atherosclerosis). Other causes include coronary artery spasm or conditions that increase oxygen demand, such as anemia or a severe infection.
Diagnosing angina involves a range of tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), exercise stress test or an echocardiogram. In some cases, a detailed assessment of the coronary arteries can be considered. This can be done as either a cardiac CT scan or a coronary angiogram. Your cardiologist will personalise the best course of action based on your medical needs.
If untreated, angina can lead to heart attacks, arrhythmias, and heart failure. It also increases the risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Addressing angina early helps prevent these potential life-threatening events.
Treatment for angina includes lifestyle changes, medications such as nitrates, beta-blockers, or calcium channel blockers, and in some cases, surgical interventions like angioplasty or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Managing risk factors like high cholesterol and hypertension is key.
Commonly Asked Questions
No, angina is a warning sign that the heart isn’t getting enough oxygen, while a heart attack occurs when a blockage cuts off the blood supply entirely.
Angina can be managed effectively, but it often requires long-term lifestyle adjustments and medications to prevent worsening heart conditions.
