Introduction

Angina is chest pain caused by restricted blood flow to the heart (called ischemia). It usually occurs when you are under emotional or physical stress (such as exercise). The heart doesn't get enough oxygen from the coronary arteries, and you feel a squeezing chest pain or pressure across your chest, which usually goes away after you stop the activity. The most common cause of angina is atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).

Stable angina usually occurs when you exercise and is fairly predictable. It is relieved with rest or nitroglycerin. Unstable angina, on the other hand, can occur when you are resting, or at unpredictable times. It can lead to a heart attack, so if you experience unstable angina you should immediately call 911.

It can be difficult to determine whether your chest pain is something serious or whether it is a milder condition. For that reason, you should always see your doctor for a diagnosis and treatment. Angina can lead to a heart attack, so you should never try to diagnose or treat it on your own.

The above information is based upon medical literature made available to Adam, (ii) is not intended to be used as a source of medical advice, and (iii) is not intended to be relied upon by any person or entity for purposes of medical diagnosis or treatment, and that Adam is not responsible for the decisions of Users relating to their use of the License Content (including, without limitation, a User's decision to seek or not to seek professional medical care or a specific treatment based upon the Licensed Content).