Angina pectoris

Why does the pain occur in angina pectoris?

The pain comes as a consequence of the lack of oxygen in the heart muscle, which in turn, comes as a consequence of lack of blood circulation in the heart blood vessels (less blood circulating). The lack of oxygen triggers interoceptive nerve endings.

Throughout this buildup of low oxygen levels in the system, the buildup of other molecules is observed such as lactic, pyruvic and phosphoric acid, which come from the anaerobic metabolism of the heart muscle (the muscles produce energy without oxygen, and thus produce the aforementioned dangerous acids as byproducts of the anaerobic (without oxygen) metabolism).

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 24 Jan 2018
Medical Author: Dr. med. Diana Hysi

Articles for angina pectoris

Introduction

Angina pectoris (stenocardia) is the result of myocardial ischemia (i.e. not the disease itself). Stenocardia (chest pain) is the medical term for chest pain or discomfort due to coronary heart disease.

Symptoms of angina pectoris

Patients start to feel pain or discomfort: occurs when the heart must work harder, usually during physical exertion; doesn't come as a surprise, and episodes of pain tend to be alike; usually lasts a short time (5 minutes or less); is relieved by rest or medicine, etc.

Causes of angina pectoris

The main and most common factor is atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries (arteries of the heart). This is the case in 90% of angina pectoris cases. Other causes include: stenosis of the ostium of the aorta, insufficiency of the aorta, etc.

Diagnosis of angina pectoris

Differential diagnosis include: infarction of the myocardis, heart neurosis, paroxysmal tachycardia, acute pericarditis, etc. Patients experiencing such symptoms should immediately refer to a doctor, regardless of the severity of the pain.

Treating angina pectoris

Those suffering from angina pectoris do not have to constantly rest, except for cases in which the pain episodes are frequent and severe. These patients should however avoid great exhaustion, emotional stress and quit smoking.

Doctor - patient conversation

Patients who experience angina pain, are usually very agitated and anxious, at times pale, perspiration visible on the forehead, scared of potential imminent death. At times, patient experiences problems with urination and defecation, sometimes urinating frequently or not at all.