If you think you're having symptoms of a heart attack, seek emergency medical care immediately by calling 911. Learn the symptoms of a heart attack in men and women.
Angina is a form of chest pain that develops when there isn’t enough blood flow to the heart. The symptoms of angina can feel like burning, squeezing or pressure in your chest, arms or jaw. A major sign of heart disease, angina is a very serious sign that puts you at risk for having a heart attack.
The most common symptoms of angina are a feeling of pain, pressure, squeezing or fullness in your chest. This feeling may spread to your shoulders, neck and jaw. Angina symptoms can feel like heartburn, so be sure to consult with your doctor to get the right diagnosis.
Angina or chest pain with the following symptoms may be warning signs of a heart attack:
The most common cause of angina is coronary artery disease (CAD), also called coronary heart disease. The development of CAD is caused by a buildup of fatty plaque in the walls of your arteries, narrowing them and limiting the amount of blood flow to your heart. When the heart muscle is strained due to a lack of blood, your risk of heart attack and heart failure increases dramatically.
To properly diagnose angina symptoms, your doctor may perform a variety of diagnostic tests—including an EKG (electrocardiogram), blood tests, stress tests, angiography or a heart scan. If your doctor recommends angina treatment for your symptoms, it may include lifestyle changes, medication, coronary angioplasty or surgery.
To receive the care you need, start by finding a primary care physician at Riverview Health by calling 317.565.0525 or by completing our online form.
Ready to take a step toward a healthier life? Evaluate your heart with a $49 heart scan at Riverview Health. Though a heart scan doesn’t require a doctor’s order, you must meet specific criteria. To see if you qualify and to request an appointment, call 317.776.7247.
Riverview Health evaluates and treats a wide array of heart conditions for people living in Noblesville, Carmel, Cicero, Fishers, Sheridan and Westfield, IN.