Signs Of Angina

There are many signs of Angina. Angina is a term for chest pain that can be a sign of coronary artery disease. It is caused by a decrease of blood flow to the heart and any of the signs of angina are a reason to see a doctor to properly evaluate the symptoms.

1. Discomfort. Oftentimes angina presents itself simply as chest discomfort. Sometimes angina is not diagnosed early on because it is mistaken for indigestion. The discomfort can feel very similar. Sometimes the discomfort is described as a burning feeling.
2. Pressure.  Angina can also be described as heavy pressure in the chest region. Any sort of tightness or heaviness can be a sign of angina.
3. Aching. Pain from angina is not always sharp and can be more of a dull pain in the chest.
4. Chest pain during stress. This is referred to as stable angina. The pain and discomfort appear during times of physical or emotional stress and disappear when the body is calm.  The periods of pain are generally short, lasting less than five minutes, and are predictable. This type of pattern is a sign of angina.
5. Pain in another location. While angina is generally thought of as chest pain, the pain can also occur in the back, abdomen, shoulders, arms, neck, throat, or jaw. Some people may have a hard time identifying exactly where the pain is originating.
6. Nausea. Pain is not always the primary symptom. Some people with angina describe feelings of nausea or an upset stomach as the first sign of angina.
7. Disorientation. This is particularly common in older people who may notice feelings of weakness, extreme fatigue, confusion, or dizziness. This can delay diagnosis by masking the other signs of angina.