Understanding Heart Pain
What Is Heart Pain?
What Is Heart Pain?
Heart pain, or angina, is a term used to describe discomfort or pain in the chest that occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood. This can be a warning sign of underlying heart disease, so it is important to take it seriously.
Possible Causes of Heart Pain
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
Narrowed or blocked arteries reduce blood flow to the heart
Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)
A complete blockage of a coronary artery can cause heart muscle damage
Pericarditis
Inflammation of the sac surrounding the heart, leading to sharp chest pain
Aortic Dissection
A life-threatening condition in which the inner layer of the aorta tears
Heart Valve Diseases
Problems with the heart valves may cause chest discomfort, especially with effort
Non-Cardiac Causes
Sometimes, pain in the chest is due to acid reflux, anxiety, or musculoskeletal conditions
Symptoms to Pay Attention To
Pain that feels like pressure, squeezing, or burning.
Pain that spreads to the left arm, jaw, neck, or back.
Shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, or cold sweats.
Pain triggered by physical exertion or stress.
What to Do If You Have Heart Pain
If the pain is severe, lasts for more than a few minutes, or is combined with other symptoms of a heart attack, seek emergency medical help immediately.
If the pain occurs occasionally and is predictable, consult a cardiologist for further evaluation.
Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, eating a heart-healthy diet, and exercising regularly can improve heart health.
Diagnostics and Treatment
Electrocardiogram (ECG):
Electrocardiogram (ECG):
Helps detect heart rhythm abnormalities.
Angiography:
Angiography:
A test that examines blood flow in coronary arteries.Treatment options: May include medications (e.g., nitrates, beta-blockers), stenting, or bypass surgery depending on the cause.
Blood Tests:
Blood Tests:
Can measure heart enzymes that indicate damage
Echocardiogram:
Echocardiogram:
Uses ultrasound to visualize the heart's structure and function
Treatment options:
Treatment options:
May include medications (e.g., nitrates, beta-blockers), stenting, or bypass surgery depending on the cause
Conclusion
Heart pain should never be ignored. If you experience chest pain or other alarming symptoms, consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. The earlier heart problems are detected, the better the chances for successful treatment.
Information resources recommended
1. American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Guidelines for the Management of Patients with Chronic Stable Angina
1. American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Guidelines for the Management of Patients with Chronic Stable Angina
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on the Management of Acute Coronary Syndromes
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on the Management of Acute Coronary Syndromes
https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Acute-Coronary-Syndromes-ACS-Guidelines
https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/44/38/3720/7243210
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37622654/
https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/14/1289/5898842
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21873419/
https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/44/38/3720/7243210
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37622654/
https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/14/1289/5898842
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21873419/