Heart muscles require oxygen to work. In order to get more oxygen, the heart's muscles need to work harder. Angina is chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart muscles are not getting sufficient oxygen-rich blood. When the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrow, the blood supply can become interrupted, resulting in angina. Angina itself is not a disease, but it is a warning sign that is indicative of more severe diseases like a heart attack or stroke. We will discuss what causes angina to better understand this condition.
Causes of angina
Angina pain occurs when blood flow to the heart is reduced. Angina is mainly of two types: stable angina and unstable angina. Stable angina occurs more commonly and is triggered by stress or exercise. Unstable angina is a serious condition, and the pain continues even after resting. So what causes angina? There can be different problems with the arteries that can reduce the proper blood supply to the heart, causing angina. These include:
- Coronary artery disease (CAD): CAD is the most common cause of heart disease and angina pain. CAD results from the deposition of fats, calcium, and cholesterol in the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscles. This buildup of plaque results in the thickening and narrowing of the arteries and disrupts the blood supply. This narrowing of the inner arteries due to the buildup of plaque is called atherosclerosis, which is caused by inflammation. High blood pressure, high triglycerides and cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity, a diet rich in fats, and physical inactivity are some risk factors for the development of coronary artery disease.
- Coronary microvascular disease: Coronary microvascular disease affects the inner walls of the small arteries that branch off from the large coronary arteries. In this condition, blood supply to the heart muscles is disrupted due to damage to the inner walls of the smaller arteries. Young women are more affected by coronary microvascular conditions. Risk factors for this disease are high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
- Coronary artery spasm: Coronary artery muscles constrict and then open up repeatedly; this is called coronary artery spasm. This spasming restricts the blood supply temporarily. If the coronary artery spasm occurs for a longer time, then it can result in angina pain. Coronary artery spasms can occur without coronary artery disease.
Conclusion
Angina pain is an indication that a person might have an underlying heart disease. By adopting healthy eating habits, avoiding smoking and alcohol, managing weight, increasing physical activity, and managing stress, angina pain can be prevented. Health insurance can provide financial protection in case of heart-related issues. Recognition of the causative factors of angina pain is important for early intervention and management of the condition, which also reduces the risk of more severe complications like heart attacks or strokes.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.