Angina

Angina is a symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD). It is the most common type of heart disease. It occurs when plaque (a sticky substance) builds up in the arteries that supply blood to the heart, leading to reduced blood flow.

As a result, the heart may beat faster and work harder to increase blood supply. This can cause symptoms such as chest pain, discomfort, tightness, or a feeling of heaviness. Some people also feel pain in the arms, neck, jaw, shoulder or back. This may also occur after physical activity, stress or a heavy meal. This sensation usually lasts for a few minutes and eases with rest.

There are several types of angina, and the specific type depends on the underlying cause and whether rest or medication can relieve the symptoms.

Stable Angina

• This is the most common form of angina.
• It typically occurs during physical activity, such as exercise or climbing stairs—often referred to as exertional angina.
• The discomfort usually subsides with rest or angina medication.
• For instance, chest pain that begins while walking uphill or in cold weather may be a sign of stable angina.
• Stable angina tends to be predictable.
• It often resembles previous episodes of chest discomfort and usually lasts only a few minutes, often five minutes or less.

Unstable Angina (a medical emergency)

• Unstable angina is more serious and unpredictable.
• It can occur even at rest or with minimal physical effort.
• The pain is often more intense, lasts longer—typically 20 minutes or more—and may not respond to rest or regular angina medications.
• When blood flow is severely restricted and oxygen doesn't reach the heart muscle, it can lead to a heart attack.
• Unstable angina requires immediate medical attention.

Variant Angina (Prinzmetal’s Angina)

• Unlike other forms, variant angina isn't caused by blocked arteries.
• Instead, it's triggered by a spasm in the coronary arteries, which temporarily limits blood flow.
• This type often causes intense chest pain, typically at rest or during nighttime hours, and often follows a pattern.
• The discomfort is usually relieved with angina medication.

Refractory Angina

• In this form, angina symptoms persist frequently despite the use of multiple medications and lifestyle adjustments.
• Managing refractory angina often requires a more advanced and tailored approach to care.

Angina occurs when your heart does not get enough oxygenated blood. This is usually due to narrowed or blocked arteries. Common causes include:

• Coronary artery disease (CAD) – the most common cause
• High blood pressure
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Emotional stress
• Physical exertion
• Cold temperatures

Your lifestyle and medical history play a big role, so identifying the cause is the first step towards effective treatment.

Angina is not the same for everyone, so treatment should never be the same for everyone. At the CK Birla Hospital, Jaipur, we personalise your care plan based on your symptoms, type of angina, and overall health.

Treatment may include:

• Lifestyle changes: Small steps can make a big difference. We'll talk you through heart-healthy habits like a balanced diet, regular exercise, quitting smoking, and stress management.
• Medications: These can help ease chest pain, prevent blood clots, and improve blood flow to your heart. Common options include nitrates, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and antiplatelet agents.
• Procedures or surgery: In more severe cases, procedures like angioplasty and stenting or coronary artery bypass surgery may be needed to restore proper blood flow to the heart.

If you're experiencing chest pain for the first time, or if your usual angina seems worse, lasts longer, or happens more often — even at rest — don't wait. Seek medical help right away. If:

• The pain doesn’t go away after resting for a few minutes or taking medication.
• It’s more intense than usual.
• It’s accompanied by shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, or sweating.

Your heart is speaking. Listen to it—and let us help.

At CK Birla Hospital, we understand that treating angina isn’t just about relieving pain — it’s about restoring your well-being and peace of mind. Our approach is patient-centred, comprehensive, and driven by excellence. Here's what sets us apart:

• Expert Cardiologists: Our team includes nationally recognised cardiologists with years of experience in diagnosing and treating heart conditions.
• Personalised Care Plans: Every patient receives a tailored treatment strategy based on their specific symptoms, type of angina, and overall health.
• Holistic Treatment Approach: We go beyond medical care by offering support for nutrition, mental health, and lifestyle changes — all essential to heart health.
• Cutting-Edge Technology: From accurate diagnosis to advanced cardiac procedures, we use the latest medical technologies to ensure the best outcomes.
• Compassionate Support: Our dedicated team listens, explains, and supports you through every step of your treatment journey.