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Angina Pectoris, commonly called angina, occurs when some part of the heart does not receive enough blood. This condition causes recurring pain or discomfort in the chest.
Angina is a common symptom of coronary heart disease. The vessels that carry blood to the heart become narrowed and blocked. An episode of angina can be triggered by physical exertion, emotional stress, extreme cold or heat, or consumption of a heavy meal, alcohol, or cigarettes.
An episode of angina is not necessarily a signal that a heart attack is about to happen, but it can be a sign of coronary heart disease. A physician can prescribe tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), the stress test, and x- rays of the coronary arteries called a coronary arteriogram or angiogram.
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