Symptoms

Angina symptoms include chest pain and discomfort, possibly described as pressure, squeezing, burning or fullness.

You may also have pain in your arms, neck, jaw, shoulder or back.

Other symptoms that you may have with angina include:

• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating

These symptoms need to be evaluated immediately by a doctor who can determine whether you have stable angina, or unstable angina, which can be a precursor to a heart attack.

Stable angina is the most common form of angina. It usually happens when you exert yourself and goes away with rest. For example, pain that comes on when you're walking uphill or in the cold weather may be angina.

Characteristics of stable angina

• Develops when your heart works harder, such as when you exercise or climb stairs
• Can usually be predicted and the pain is usually similar to previous types of chest pain you've had
• Lasts a short time, perhaps five minutes or less
• Disappears sooner if you rest or use your angina medication

The severity, duration and type of angina can vary. New or different symptoms may signal a more dangerous form of angina (unstable angina) or a heart attack.

Characteristics of unstable angina (a medical emergency)

• Occurs even at rest
• Is a change in your usual pattern of angina
• Is unexpected
• Is usually more severe and lasts longer than stable angina, maybe 30 minutes or longer
• May not disappear with rest or use of angina medication
• Might signal a heart attack

There's another type of angina, called variant angina or Prinzmetal's angina. This type of angina is rarer. It's caused by a spasm in your heart's arteries that temporarily reduces blood flow.

Characteristics of variant angina (Prinzmetal's angina)

• Usually happens when you're resting
• Is often severe
• May be relieved by angina medication

Angina in women

Symptoms of angina in women can be different from angina symptoms that occur in men. These differences may lead to delays in seeking treatment. For example, chest pain is a common symptom in women with angina, but it may not be the only symptom or the most prevalent symptom for women. Women may also have symptoms such as:

• Nausea
• Shortness of breath
• Abdominal pain
• Discomfort in the neck, jaw or back
• Stabbing pain instead of chest pressure

When to see a doctor

If your chest pain lasts longer than a few minutes and doesn't go away when you rest or take your angina medications, it may be a sign you're having a heart attack. Call 911 or emergency medical help. Arrange for transportation. Only drive yourself to the hospital as a last resort.

If chest discomfort is a new symptom for you, it's important to see your doctor to find out what's causing your chest pain and to get proper treatment. If you've been diagnosed with stable angina and it gets worse or changes, seek medical attention immediately.