Angina is your heart’s way of warning you that it isn’t getting enough blood. You may feel chest pain, tightness, or pressure that can spread to your shoulders, arms, or jaw. Recognizing these signs and symptoms early is key to protecting your heart.
What is Angina?
Angina is chest pain or discomfort that happens when your heart muscle doesn’t get enough oxygen-rich blood. It often feels like pressure, heaviness, or squeezing in the chest, and it may spread to the arms, shoulders, neck, or jaw. Some people also experience shortness of breath, dizziness, or fatigue. Angina is not a disease but a warning sign of underlying heart problems, such as coronary artery disease. Don’t ignore the signs: contact our physicians promptly.
Signs & Symptoms of Angina:
- Pressure, heaviness, or tightness in your chest
- Pain that spreads to your arms, shoulders, neck, jaw, or back
- Shortness of breath, especially during activity or stress
- Fatigue or unusual tiredness with exertion
- Nausea, dizziness, or sweating during discomfort
- Symptoms that worsen with physical activity and improve with rest
What Causes Angina?
Angina occurs when your heart muscle doesn’t receive enough oxygen-rich blood, most often due to narrowing or blockages in the coronary arteries. This imbalance between oxygen demand and supply causes chest discomfort, pressure, or pain. Over time, lifestyle factors, underlying conditions, and heart disease progression can increase your risk of developing angina. Some of the most common causes and risk factors of angina include:
- Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries)
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Obesity or poor diet
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Stress or emotional strain
Heart Conditions Can't Wait
Ignoring angina or delaying treatment can put your health at serious risk. When left untreated, angina often signals underlying coronary artery disease that may worsen over time. This can lead to complications like heart attacks, heart failure, or even sudden cardiac arrest. What starts as mild chest discomfort can quickly progress into life-threatening emergencies if not addressed promptly. Seeking medical attention as soon as symptoms appear gives you the best chance to protect your heart and prevent irreversible damage.
How is Angina Diagnosed and Treated?
When you visit us with symptoms of angina, we begin with a consultation to understand your health history and the nature of your discomfort. Our physicians perform advanced diagnostic testing, such as imaging scans, stress tests, or heart monitoring, to pinpoint the cause of your chest pain and assess your overall heart health. Once we have a clear picture, we create a personalized treatment plan to relieve symptoms and prevent future complications.
Depending on your condition, your treatment may include:
- Medications to improve blood flow and reduce strain on your heart
- Lifestyle guidance to support long-term heart health and longevity
- Noninvasive therapies, such as external counterpulsation (ECP)
- Advanced diagnostic imaging for ongoing monitoring and prevention
- Referral for interventional or surgical options if needed
Schedule Your Consultation
California Cardiac Institute is dedicated to helping you live longer and healthier by combining advanced medicine with lifestyle-focused care. If you’re experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, or other warning signs of angina, our physicians are here to provide expert diagnosis and personalized treatments. We offer same-day appointments and accept walk-ins because your heart health should never wait. Schedule your consultation for angina diagnosis and treatment today at our Glendale, California, location.
