Angina

Angina occurs when the coronary arteries cannot deliver enough oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle, often due to atherosclerosis. This process involves:

• Fatty deposition (plaques): Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and other substances accumulate in the arterial walls, leading to plaque formation.
• Inflammation: The body’s immune response to plaque buildup can cause further damage to blood vessels, making them prone to rupture.
• Arterial narrowing: Over time, plaque deposits harden and constrict the arteries, reducing blood flow and leading to ischaemia (oxygen deprivation), which triggers chest pain during exertion or stress.

Although angina itself is not life-threatening, it is a warning sign of an underlying cardiovascular issue.

1. Stable Angina: Occurs predictably with physical exertion or stress and subsides with rest or medication (e.g., nitrates).
2. Unstable Angina: Can occur at rest, is more severe, and may indicate an impending heart attack.
3. Variant (Prinzmetal’s) Angina: Caused by coronary artery spasms rather than plaque buildup.

Chest pain that lasts more than 10 minutes, occurs at rest, or is more intense than usual may signal a heart attack. Seek immediate medical attention by calling 999 if you experience:

• Crushing chest pain that spreads to the jaw, arms, or back
• Shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or nausea
• Pain that does not improve with rest or medication

• Medications: Nitrates, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to improve blood flow and reduce symptoms.
• Lifestyle changes: Managing cholesterol, blood pressure, and inflammation through diet, exercise, and smoking cessation can slow atherosclerosis progression.
• Medical procedures: In severe cases, treatments such as angioplasty, stenting, or coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) may be necessary.