What is angina?
Angina is something that should be taken seriously. It is not just something mild. Angina is a condition in which you get chest pain which is caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. It is when your heart muscle is not getting enough oxygen. It is something that has to be looked after because it could be a symptom of coronary artery disease. It is not a disease itself but could be a symptom of a heart disease.
What are the symptoms of angina?
The main symptom would of course be tightness, pain, pressure and heaviness in the chest. The pain could suddenly appear or one could experience it over time. Other symptoms may include dizziness, fatigue, severe sweating or anxiety. One could also experience heartburn, nausea, indigestion, shortness of breath and a rapidly fast heart rate. The pain could travel from the chest into the jaw, neck and shoulders. If you are suffering with these symptoms, I advise that you visit your doctor.
What triggers one to have an attack?
Like I've mentioned before, it is caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. I've done some research on what triggers one to have an attack and I have found that the common causes of an attack include: severe stress or emotions like worrying and anxiety, being exposed to temperatures that are extreme, having an unhealthy and heavy meal, smoking, or physical exertion.
What treatment are given to patients that have angina?
It could be controlled by lifestyle changes, like being more healthy and avoiding things that may worsen it. Sometimes medication is required. Depending on how severe it is, surgery may be required in some cases.
How to avoid angina or get rid of it?
Exercise is very important, exercise will help you to stay fit and maintain a healthier heart. You need to control your cholesterol, stay away from unhealthy foods that are high in cholesterol and always look for a healthier alternative when you want to eat something. Look after your blood pressure levels. Do not consume things that are high in sodium, such as salt. STOP SMOKING! Smoking is a terrible habit and is detrimental to your health. I can not stress on this enough, if you are a smoker, I strongly advise that you stop or if not then I advise that you should never start. I also advise that you include foods that are high in omega 3 fatty acids in your diet, such as fish oil. Stay away from unhealthy and fattening foods. Rather make your own food at home instead of having take out. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. Cook your food in olive oil instead of normal oil or rather eat food that is steamed or baked and not fried.
