Angina pectoris is a medical term that refers to a type of chest pain or discomfort caused by inadequate blood flow to the heart muscle. It is often described as a squeezing, pressure, heaviness, or tightness sensation in the chest. Angina typically occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood, usually due to narrowed or blocked coronary arteries.

Angina is a symptom of coronary artery disease. Angina is more common in men in middle or old age and postmenopausal women.

Symptoms:

The symptoms of angina pectoris can vary from person to person, but they typically involve chest discomfort or pain. Here are the common symptoms associated with angina:

Chest pain or discomfort: The most prominent symptom of angina is a feeling of pressure, tightness, squeezing, or heaviness in the chest. The pain is usually located behind the breastbone (sternum) but can also radiate to the arms (often the left arm), shoulders, neck, jaw, or back.

Shortness of breath: Many individuals with angina experience difficulty breathing or a sensation of breathlessness, particularly during physical exertion or when the chest pain occurs.

Fatigue: Angina can cause feelings of extreme tiredness, weakness, or exhaustion, even with minimal physical activity.

Nausea: Some people may experience a sense of queasiness or feeling sick to their stomach during an angina episode.

Sweating: Profuse sweating, cold sweats, or clamminess can accompany angina episodes.

Dizziness or lightheadedness: Angina may cause a temporary sensation of dizziness, lightheadedness, or faintness.

It is important to note that not everyone experiences angina in the same way. Some individuals may have atypical symptoms, such as indigestion-like discomfort, unexplained fatigue, or pain in the upper abdomen, throat, or jaw. Additionally, some people, particularly women and older adults, may have “silent” angina, where they experience minimal or no chest pain but still have underlying heart problems.

If you are experiencing chest pain or related symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Treatments:

The treatment for angina aims to relieve symptoms, improve quality of life, and reduce the risk of complications. The specific treatment plan for angina may vary depending on the severity of symptoms, underlying causes, and individual factors. Some common treatments and strategies for angina may include:

1. Lifestyle changes: Making certain lifestyle modifications can help manage angina symptoms and reduce the risk of future heart problems. These changes may include:

2. Quitting smoking: Smoking damages the blood vessels and worsens angina. Quitting smoking is essential for improving heart health.
Eating a heart-healthy diet: Adopting a diet low in saturated fats, cholesterol, and sodium while emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support heart health.

3. Regular exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity, as recommended by a healthcare professional, can improve cardiovascular fitness and reduce angina symptoms.

4. Achieving a healthy weight: Maintaining a healthy body weight can lessen the strain on the heart and improve overall heart health.
Managing stress: Finding effective stress management techniques, such as relaxation exercises, meditation, or counseling, can help reduce angina triggers.

5. Monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol: Keeping blood pressure and cholesterol levels under control through medication and lifestyle modifications can reduce the risk of angina.

6. Medications

7. Procedures and interventions: In some cases, more invasive treatments may be necessary, such as:

i. Angioplasty and stenting: This procedure involves inserting a catheter with a balloon into the blocked or narrowed coronary artery to open it up. A stent (a small mesh tube) may be placed to help keep the artery open.
ii. Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery: This surgical procedure involves creating a new pathway for blood to flow around the blocked or narrowed coronary arteries, typically using blood vessels from other parts of the body.

Nutrients and supplements:
1. Angina Remedy – for chest pain that is caused by a lack of oxygen-rich blood reaching the heart muscle.
2. Magnesium – important for cardiac function
3. Coral Calcium – calcium particles enter the heart muscle cells contributing to the electrical signals that coordinate the heart’s function.
4. Blood vessel remedy – used for treating hypertension, atherosclerotic plaque build-up, and any cardiovascular problems. Helps to prevent heart attacks and strokes.
5. Buffered vitamin C – used for most forms of cardiovascular disease.
6. Selenium – a selenium deficiency has been linked to heart disease.
7. Vitamin E – an antioxidant that also improves circulation. Vitamin E also thins the blood reducing the risk of clotting. (Note consult with your doctor if you are taking prescription blood thinners before using supplemental Vitamin E).
8. Pottasium – helps lower blood pressure. May help prevent heart disease and strokes.
9. Vitamin B Complex – B vitamins help reduce homocysteine levels, it has been suggested that supplementation with B vitamins might decrease cardiovascular risk.
10. L-arginine – is an amino acid that is involved in the production of nitric oxide, a compound that helps relax and widen blood vessels. Some studies have suggested that L-arginine supplements may improve blood flow and exercise tolerance in individuals with angina. However, it can interact with certain medications and may not be suitable for everyone.
11. Omega 3’s – have been associated with cardiovascular health benefits. They may help reduce inflammation, improve lipid profiles, and decrease the risk of heart disease.

Causes:

Angina is usually caused by an inadequate blood supply to the heart muscle. The arteries supplying blood to the heart muscles become narrowed due to a build-up of fatty substances (This is called atherosclerosis.) Less commonly a defect in the aortic valve may be responsible. Contributing factors may also include a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, high blood pressure, obesity, smoking, genetic factors, and diabetes.

Underlying Emotions:

Feelings of rejection, being all out of love (especially for oneself), communicating matters of the heart are seen as challenging. Unresolved parental issues.

Diet:

A heart-healthy diet is crucial for managing angina and promoting overall cardiovascular health. Here are some dietary recommendations that can be beneficial:

1. Emphasize fruits and vegetables: Include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet as they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Aim for at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day.

2. Choose whole grains: Opt for whole grain products such as whole wheat bread, brown rice, and whole grain cereals. These provide more fiber and nutrients compared to refined grains.

3. Select lean proteins: Include lean sources of protein in your meals, such as skinless poultry, fish (particularly fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines), legumes, and tofu. Limit red meat intake and choose lean cuts when consumed.

4. Limit saturated and trans fats: Reduce the consumption of saturated fats found in fatty meats, full-fat dairy products, and tropical oils like coconut oil. Avoid trans fats often found in processed foods, fried foods, and commercially baked goods.

5. Incorporate healthy fats: Include foods rich in healthy fats like mono- and polyunsaturated fats. These include olive oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds. These fats can help improve cholesterol levels.

6. Control portion sizes: Be mindful of portion sizes to maintain a healthy weight and prevent overeating. Use measuring cups or scales if necessary to ensure appropriate portion control.

7. Limit sodium intake: Reduce the amount of sodium in your diet as high sodium intake can increase blood pressure. Avoid adding extra salt to your meals and limit processed and packaged foods, which are often high in sodium. Instead, use herbs, spices, and other flavorings to enhance the taste of your food.

8. Stay hydrated: Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and support overall health.

Remedies: