Heart Angina Symptoms and Treatment

Chest pain or discomfort in the chest may be a symptom of angina, which occurs with the heart muscle does not get enough blood, according the the National Institute of Health (NIH). Signs of angina should be taken seriously, because they can be a symptom of coronary artery disease, the most common form of heart disease.

Angina may be a sign that a heart attack could follow. Although not all chest pain is angina, a doctor should be consulted If you experience chest pain or discomfort. A doctor can evaluate your symptoms and recommend, or prescribe a plan to treat the condition.

The NIH website says and angina is often described as tightness, burning, squeezing or pressure in the chest that usually stars behind the breast bones. Angina pain can also occur in arms, shoulders, neck, throat, jaw or back. It may be mistaken for indigestion.

Additional symptoms may include nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, weakness, sweating and light headed feeling. In women there may be discomfort in the back, shoulder and abdomen.

Angina can occur during physical exertion or during rest. The symptoms may vary depending upon the type of angina you are experiencing.

Any chest pain or discomfort should be reported to your doctor, who can diagnose the condition and recommend treatment.

Treatments for angina may include medication, medical procedures, cardiac rehabilitation lifestyle changes. Treatment goals are to reduce pain and lower the risk of heart attack.

Healthy Lifestyle to Prevent Angina

Some, but not all heart risks can be helped with lifestyle choices. It is wise to focus upon the changes that you can make for better health. Heart Risks You Can and Cannot Change

For mild symptoms the doctor may recommend lifestyle changes and medicine. Follow your doctor's recommendations about nutrition, exercise and other lifestyle choices. Lifestyle Recommendations from the American Heart Association

The National Institute of Heath recommends lifestyle changes that can help prevent angina episodes. Lifestyle changes that may help reduce angine include slowing down to take rest breaks if angina occurs with exertion, avoiding large meals, avoid rich foods that make you feel stuffed and avoiding stressful situations.

Lifestyle changes can also help to lower risk of heart disease. A healthy diet is an important part of the lifestyle that can help to prevent high blood pressure, high cholesterol and obesity. Heart Healthy Diets Promote Weight Loss

Following a heart healthy diet with plentiful amounts of fruits and vegetables that are low in fat, such as the DASH eating plan. Dash Diet for Heart Health: Prevent High Blood Pressure and Heart Disease

Avoid overeating and eating foods that make you feel stuffed.

Do not smoke and do not let yourself be exposed to second hand smoke from people who do smoke. Smoking at Home Risks Health of Loved Ones

If you are overweight or obese, lose the extra weight.

Exercise and get physical activity regularly.

Take all medicine prescribed by your doctor.

Medicines that your doctor may prescribe include nitrate, nitroglycerin, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, ACE inhibitors, oral antplatelet medicines and anticoagulants. Your doctors will prescribed medications based upon your symptoms, so it is important to communicate with your medical professional.

Information in this article is not intended as medical advice. If you have questions about a medical condition please consult a doctor.