Is angina pectoris the same as a heart attack?

Angina pectoris is not the same as a heart attack, although both are associated with chest pain and may share some symptoms. Angina is primarily a symptom of reduced blood flow and oxygen to the heart muscle, and it is usually temporary. A heart attack is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart muscle stops completely, leading to permanent damage to the heart muscle if immediate medical intervention is not provided [2].

Angina can be a warning sign that you are at a higher risk of having a heart attack. Therefore, it is important to understand the differences and symptoms associated with each to seek the appropriate medical care at the right time.

What is angina?

Angina is a type of chest discomfort or pain that occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood [1]. It is often described as a feeling of pressure, tightness, burning, or squeezing in the chest. This discomfort may also spread to the arms, shoulders, neck, jaw, throat, or back, and some may feel pain in the stomach area or indigestion [1]. Angina usually occurs when the heart is working harder than usual, such as during physical activity or in cold weather, but it can also occur during rest or upon waking from sleep [1].

There are several types of angina, including stable angina, which is the most common, occurs in a regular pattern, and responds to rest and medication. Unstable angina is more dangerous, as it occurs without physical exertion and does not go away with rest or medication, and it is a sign of an imminent heart attack [2].

What is a heart attack?

A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is cut off completely, usually due to a blockage in one of the coronary arteries that supply the heart with blood. This interruption leads to the death of heart muscle cells in the affected area. The symptoms of a heart attack are similar to those of angina, but they are often more severe, last longer, and do not subside with rest or standard angina medication [3].

Symptoms and signs requiring immediate intervention

If you experience chest pain that does not go away, or if your angina symptoms change (become stronger, occur more frequently, last longer, or occur at rest), these are signs that heart disease may be worsening and require immediate contact with your healthcare provider [1]. It is important to seek emergency medical help if you experience chest pain accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or weakness [1].

Never ignore chest pain, especially if it is new or different from any previous pain. Angina can be an important warning sign, and taking it seriously can help prevent more serious complications such as a heart attack. For more information on managing heart-related chest pain, you can visit Angina pectoris: Understanding and managing heart-related chest pain (Arabic).

Next steps and treatment

If you have been diagnosed with angina, your healthcare provider will develop a treatment plan that may include lifestyle changes, such as avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol, following a heart-healthy diet, and avoiding stressful situations [1]. The doctor may also prescribe medications such as antiplatelets (e.g., aspirin), beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, statins, calcium channel blockers, or nitroglycerin [1]. It is essential to follow the doctor's instructions and not stop taking any medication without consulting them, especially medications prescribed for heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure [1].

Medical references

• Angina - discharge
• Angina
• Angina (Chest Pain) What Is Angina?