Q. What is angina, and how is it different from a heart attack?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Angina: A Warning Sign
Angina is like a red flag waved by your heart, signaling that something might be amiss. It's chest discomfort or pain that occurs when the heart muscle doesn't receive enough oxygen-rich blood. This shortage of blood and oxygen often happens during physical activity or times of stress when the heart is working harder.
Key Points About Angina:
- Pain Type: Angina typically presents as discomfort or pressure in the chest. It can feel like squeezing, fullness, burning, or a heavy weight on the chest.
- Duration: Angina pain is usually short-lived, lasting for a few minutes. It tends to go away with rest or medication, which helps the heart receive more blood and oxygen.
- Triggers: Common triggers for angina include exercise, emotional stress, extreme cold or hot temperatures, heavy meals, and even smoking.
- Risk Factor Awareness: It's crucial to understand that angina is often a symptom of an underlying heart condition, like coronary artery disease (CAD). Managing risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes is essential in preventing and controlling angina.
Heart Attack: A Serious Alarm
Now, let's talk about heart attacks. Unlike angina, a heart attack is a medical emergency. It occurs when a blood clot completely blocks the blood supply to a part of the heart muscle. This can cause lasting damage to the heart.
Key Points About Heart Attacks:
- Pain Type: Heart attack pain is more intense and prolonged than angina. It often feels like a crushing or squeezing sensation in the chest.
- Duration: Heart attack pain doesn't subside with rest or medication. It persists and may even intensify over time.
- Symptoms: In addition to chest pain, heart attack symptoms can include shortness of breath, nausea, lightheadedness, cold sweats, and pain or discomfort radiating to the arms, neck, jaw, back, or stomach.
- Immediate Action: If you suspect you or someone is having a heart attack, call emergency services immediately. Quick medical intervention is crucial to minimize heart damage.
In Summary:
Angina is like a cautionary tale told by your heart, warning you of potential trouble. It's chest discomfort that comes and goes, often triggered by physical exertion or stress. On the other hand, a heart attack is a severe medical event, with intense and prolonged chest pain, requiring immediate medical attention.
Both angina and heart attacks are often linked to underlying heart conditions, so it's essential not to ignore them. If you experience chest discomfort or pain, especially if it's severe, don't hesitate to seek medical help. Your heart's health is worth it!
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