Angina pectoris, often referred to as “tightness in the chest”, is a term for sudden pain and a feeling of pressure in the chest. This is due to reduced blood flow in part of the heart muscle. It is often accompanied by symptoms such as cold sweat, dizziness, shortness of breath, restlessness and fear of death.
In many cases, these symptoms occur in physically strenuous or stressful situations, but are also possible during periods of rest.
Reduced blood flow to the heart muscle is most commonly caused by plaques, which are pathological deposits and calcifications of the vascular walls. These deposits can break open and form blood clots. This may constrict arteries or, in very severe cases, even block them, which can then trigger a life-threatening heart attack.
More information on the medical emergency of a heart attack
Stable angina pectoris
This form of angina pectoris typically occurs during physical exertion or stress and follows a pattern. The symptoms, such as a feeling of tightness or pain, generally disappear after a few minutes or after taking medication. Although this form is not as acute as unstable angina pectoris, the patient needs close medical monitoring to prevent a change for the worse.
Unstable angina pectoris
In this form of angina pectoris, the typical symptoms occur unpredictably and often even at rest. This is always a medical emergency, as it greatly increases the risk of a sudden heart attack. The symptoms are also more intense and usually last longer than in the stable form and cannot always be alleviated by drug treatment or rest.
More information on angina pectoris is available on the website gesundheit.gv.at