Angina pectoris is a term often used in Indonesia to describe a condition characterized by sudden chest pain similar to a heart attack. However, in the medical world, this term is not officially recognized. Many associate it with the medical condition angina pectoris to a heart attack.
Understanding the Medical Condition of Angina Pectoris
Angina pectoris is defined by the general public as a sudden and intense pain or discomfort in the chest. In medical terminology, this condition is better known as angina pectoris . Angina pectoris is a symptom of coronary heart disease, where blood flow to the heart muscle is reduced due to narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries.
The following are some conditions that can cause angina pectoris :
1. Narrowing of the coronary arteries
Plaque formed from platelets, fibrin, cholesterol, and other substances on the walls of arteries can block the coronary arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart.
2. Coronary artery spasm
Contractions in the walls of the coronary arteries can temporarily reduce blood flow to the heart.
3. Anemia
A lack of red blood cells that carry oxygen can cause the heart muscle to receive less supply and trigger angina.
Symptoms of Angina Pectoris
There are several main symptoms of angina pectoris which include the following:
- Chest pain is pain or discomfort in the chest that can spread to the arms, neck, jaw, or back. This pain feels like being crushed or pressed by a heavy object.
- Having difficulty breathing or feeling short of breath during activity.
- Excessive cold sweats for no apparent reason.
- Feelings of nausea or vomiting , especially when chest pain appears.
- Feeling very tired or weak for no apparent reason.
How to Prevent Angina Pectoris?
To prevent angina pectoris, it is very important to consistently maintain heart health and proactively reduce various risk factors that can cause heart disease. You can apply the following steps:
- Avoid smoking : One of the main risk factors for heart disease is smoking. By quitting smoking, you can reduce your risk of angina and coronary heart disease.
- Have a balanced diet : You can eat foods that are low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and salt. It is better to increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and grains to provide good nutrition for your body.
- Regular exercise : Regular physical activity can help maintain heart health and control weight.
- Controlling body weight : If you maintain an ideal body weight, you can reduce the workload on your heart and the risk of heart disease.
- Manage stress : Excessive stress can trigger angina. Relaxation techniques, meditation, and breathing exercises can help manage stress.
- Monitor your health : Regularly checking your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels can help detect and manage risk factors for heart disease.
- Take medication regularly : If you have a health condition that requires medication, such as hypertension or diabetes, be sure to follow your doctor's instructions and take your medication regularly.
Angina pectoris is a serious condition that indicates a problem with the heart. Although often considered trivial, sudden and intense chest pain can be a warning sign of coronary heart disease. It is important to recognize the symptoms of angina pectoris and take preventive measures to maintain heart health. If you or someone you know experiences suspicious chest pain, seek medical help immediately to get the right diagnosis and treatment. Heart health is one of the keys to a healthy and long life because the heart is one of the vital organs in the human body. Let's create a healthy life together!
Article written by dr. Nurul Rahayu, Sp.JP, FIHA, FESC (Heart and Blood Vessel Specialist, EMC Pekayon Hospital).