What Are Angina Attacks?
Angina attacks describe a kind of chest pain that is the result of diminished flow of blood to the heart muscle. Angina is a sign of coronary artery disease, which is characterized by the heart muscle receiving an inadequate supply of oxygen-rich blood.
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Statistics
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According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, angina is relatively common, with approximately 7 million Americans suffering from the condition.
Types of Angina Attacks
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Stable angina is characterized by a constant and recurring chest pain (usually brought on by exertion), while unstable angina is unexpected and new (and usually signals an approaching heart attack). Variant angina is rare and occurs while resting.
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Causes
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Angina attacks are caused by a build-up of plaque (a fatty material) in the coronary arteries (a condition called atherosclerosis). As the plaque builds up, it also narrows and stiffens coronary arteries, decreasing the flow of oxygenated blood.
Triggers
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Triggers for an attack vary according to the type of angina you have. Stable angina triggers include stress, smoking, exposure to extreme temperatures and heavy meals. Blood clots trigger unstable angina, and variant angina triggers include medications that narrow blood vessels, cocaine, stress, smoking and exposure to cold temperatures.
Treatment
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Angina treatments include lifestyle changes such as relaxing more, avoiding large meals, reducing stress and adopting a healthy diet and exercise plan. Nitroglycerin is commonly used because it relaxes and dilates blood vessels. Additional medications and medical procedures may be ordered if angina attacks are not brought under control.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Louise Docker
