How does unstable angina affect the body?

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Unstable angina causes sudden pain in the chest, arms, and back. The pain may be severe, or it may feel like pressure, an ache, or fullness in the chest. Unstable angina is a sign that blood flow to the heart has lessened dangerously and dramatically, and can be a sign that a heart attack may be imminent.

Continue Learning about Angina

Understanding Chest Pain (Angina Pectoris)

What is angina pectoris? Angina is temporary pain or discomfort in the chest that occurs when not enough oxygen-carrying blood reaches your heart musc...

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

A special problem happens when coronary heart disease is present but does not cause any chest discom...

Diana Meeks

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is frequently the cause of angina. In coronary artery disease, arterie...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Angina

Just a fancy name for chest pain or discomfort, angina often points to an underlying heart problem. Although you may experience pressure or a squeezing sensation in your chest, the feeling may also occur in your neck, jaw, shoulders, back or arms. These symptoms warn doctors that you may have coronary heart disease, the most common form of heart disease in adults. (The fatty material that causes heart disease restricts the arteries; this restriction causes a reduction of oxygenated blood to the heart muscles, leading to chest pain.) Not all chest pain is caused by heart problems. Angina can result from a lung infection, panic attack or even a blockage in an artery of the lung, called pulmonary embolism. Always see a doctor so he or she can determine why you are having chest pain.

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