Heart-related health concerns can be alarming, and two conditions that often cause confusion are angina and heart attacks. Both share symptoms that affect the chest, but it’s crucial to understand their differences and how to identify them.
So, let’s delve into the world of angina, exploring what it is, its symptoms, its causes, and how it differs from a heart attack.
Table of Contents
What is Angina?
Experts at the Punjab Institute of Cardiology define angina as a common heart condition characterized by chest discomfort or pain. It occurs when the heart muscle doesn’t receive enough oxygen-rich blood, typically due to narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. What is the difference between angina and a heart attack?
The reduced blood flow is often a result of atherosclerosis, a condition in which fatty deposits build up in the arteries, restricting blood flow.
What are the Symptoms of Angina?
Some of the common symptoms of angina that are felt by people include:
Chest Pain: Angina typically manifests as a sensation of pressure, tightness, or squeezing in the chest. The pain may also spread to the back, neck, shoulders, arms, or jaw.
Breathlessness: People with angina may feel out of breath even when at rest or participating in minor physical activity.
Weakness: Unexpected weakness or weariness may be an indication of angina.
Dizziness: Some people who are experiencing angina could experience nausea or dizziness along with belching.
What is the difference between angina and a heart attack?
Types of Angina
There are different types of angina that you need to know about. Let’s have a look.
Stable Angina
The most frequent type of angina, known as stable angina, happens when the heart needs more oxygen, typically as a result of physical or mental stress. Rest or medications like nitroglycerin can let the discomfort go away, and it has a predictable rhythm.
Unstable Angina
Unstable angina is more serious and unpredictable. It can occur at rest or with minimal exertion and often lasts longer than stable angina. Unstable angina demands immediate medical attention as it may signal an impending heart attack.
What is the difference between angina and a heart attack then? Keep on reading to understand.
Variant Angina
Variant angina is rare and caused by coronary artery spasms that temporarily narrow the arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart. The spasms can occur at rest and lead to chest pain. This type of angina requires prompt evaluation and treatment.
Difference Between Angina and a Heart Attack
There are some key differences that indicate the difference between an angina and a heart attack.
Triggers and Duration
Angina normally lasts for a brief period of time (about 5 minutes) and is frequently brought on by physical exertion or emotional stress. Rest or medicine can help to alleviate it.
On the other hand, if you look at the difference between angina and a heart attack, heart attacks can happen at any time, even while you’re resting. The pain is more intense and lingering, frequently lasting several minutes or longer.
Damage to Heart Muscles
Dr. Shahzad Majeed Bhatti who is one of the best cardiologists in Pakistan says that angina does not cause permanent damage to the heart muscle. It serves as a warning sign that the heart is not receiving enough oxygen but does not result in tissue death.
A heart attack, however, causes significant damage to the heart muscle due to the lack of oxygen and blood supply to the affected area.
Suggested Read: What is the Difference Between a Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest?
Severity of Pain
Angina is characterized by discomfort, pressure, or a feeling of squeezing in the chest. Although painful, it is generally milder than the excruciating pain experienced during a heart attack. So, this is also a difference between angina and a heart attack?
Predictability
Stable angina follows a predictable pattern and is usually triggered by physical activity or emotional stress. The episodes are consistent and reproducible.
Heart attacks are not predictable and can occur suddenly, even at rest.
Long Term Effects
While angina itself does not cause permanent damage to the heart muscle, it is an essential warning sign that indicates an increased risk of heart disease.
A heart attack can lead to permanent damage to the heart muscle, weakening the heart and potentially leading to heart failure.
Taking Action for Angina and Heart Attack
After knowing the difference between angina and a heart attack, the following actions must be taken if you have chest pain or discomfort that resembles angina:
- Put an end to all physical and mental stress by taking a nap.
- Take the nitroglycerin as instructed if it has been prescribed to you.
- When pain doesn’t go away or gets worse after resting or taking medicine, consult a doctor right once.
Recognizing the symptoms of a heart attack is crucial for seeking immediate medical help:
- Call emergency services immediately if you suspect a heart attack.
- Chew and swallow an aspirin, as it can help to thin the blood and reduce the size of the blood clot.
- Do not attempt to drive yourself to the hospital – wait for medical professionals to arrive.
Suggested Read: How to Stop a Heart Attack?
When to Visit a Cardiologist
What is the difference between angina and a heart attack? Both angina and heart attacks are serious heart disorders that need to be treated right away. A heart attack necessitates prompt medical attention in order to avoid serious repercussions, while angina serves as a warning indication of an underlying heart condition. To ensure correct diagnosis and treatment, it’s critical to contact the best cardiologist near you as soon as you or someone you know complains of chest discomfort or other similar symptoms. Contact Healthwire in case of any emergency.
