Angina Pectoris

Angina Pectoris is the name given to a clinical syndrome used to describe discomfort due to transient myocardial ischaemia. The underlying cause may be Coronary atheroma. Spasm of coronary artery may also be underlying cause.

Factors that worsen Angina

Exercise
Anaemia
Hypertension
Hyperthyroidism
Tachycardia (increased heart rate)
Aortic valve disease

Features of of Angina

It is usually experienced as a sense of opression or tightness in the middle of the chest 'like a band round the chest'. It is induced by exertion and relieved by rest and lasts for a few minutes.
The pain may be accompanied by discomfort in the arms more commonly in the left arm or even wrist or hands. The pain may radiate to neck or jaw or it may be present in the upper abdomen (epigastric region) or even back (interscapular region).

Situations precipitating Angina

Physical exertion like walking, or walking against wind, or while having a bath.
Cold exposure
Intense emotions
Heavy meals
Violent dreams
Lying flat

Relief of pain with Glyceryl trinitrate helps in diagnosis of Angina Pectoris.

Stress induced Electrocardiogram in a patient of Angina Pectoris

Normal Electocardiogram

Risk Factors for Coronary Heart Disease

Management of Angina

For Other Heart related Topics