There are multiple types of angina:

• Stable angina (angina pectoris): Pain that follows a predictable pattern, typically occurring with exertion/cardiovascular effort. This is the most common form of angina.
• Unstable (progressive) angina: Pain that is increasing in frequency or severity. Chest pain of this type is more concerning for an impending heart attack.
• Variant (prinzmetal) angina: Pain that can occur at rest and in younger patients. It can be triggered by physical exertion or stress and is thought to be due to spasm of the artery.
• Microvascular angina: Pain caused by abnormal function of the tiny (microscopic) arteries of the heart.

To schedule an appointment to discuss your need for angina treatment, call us at 888-287-1082 or visit our Make a Cardiovascular Appointment page for more information.

Major risk factors for angina due to coronary artery disease include:

• Unhealthy cholesterol levels
• High blood pressure
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Metabolic syndrome
• Inactive lifestyle
• Unhealthy diet
• Age (45+ years for men and 55+ years for women)
• Family history of heart disease at an early age

If you have any type of chest pain, you should seek medical attention. If your healthcare provider suspects you are experiencing angina due to a heart condition, several tests and/or procedures may be recommended, including:

• Electrocardiogram
• Coronary angiography (cardiac catheterization)
• Computed tomography angiography
• Stress test
• Echocardiogram
• Chest X-ray
• Blood test

The goal of evaluating a patient with chest pain thought to be caused by angina is to:

• Rule out an immediate life-threatening condition
• Determine the appropriate follow-up testing for further evaluation and to guide treatment
• Recommend treatment of the underlying cardiovascular condition and improve symptoms

Treatment recommendations for angina might include:

• Improving blood flow to the heart with medications, stents or bypass surgery
• Medications to reduce the progression of coronary artery disease
• Medications to reduce symptoms of angina
• Changes in lifestyle
• Improved control of risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure or tobacco use
• Cardiac rehabilitation

Seek immediate medical attention if your symptoms are new or alarming.