subject: Angina as the Cause of Chest Discomfort and Shortness of Breath [print this page] Angina as the Cause of Chest Discomfort and Shortness of Breath
Chest Discomfort Shortness Of Breath are among the common symptoms of various conditions. These two symptoms often come along together. But panic should not be the initial reaction in case both or either of the two is experienced.
Chest discomfort and shortness of breath may be caused by angina. This condition is known as a medical name for chest pain at the back of the breastbone. Angina, or angina pectoris, is a result of the lack of blood flowing through the coronary vessels of the myocardium or heart muscle. This condition is also a symptom of another condition known as myocardial ischemia. This happens when the myocardium does not get the right amount of blood it needs to function.
It is important to know if you are already having angina because this also indicates the possibility of a sudden heart attack. A heart attack occurs when there is blood clot or cholesterol deposit fully blocking the passageway of the blood to the heart muscle. Angina is usually and indication of a partial obstruction in the flow of blood to the myocardium.
Along with chest discomfort and shortness of breath, other symptoms of angina include a sudden increase in heart rate and blood pressure, feeling of indigestion, and feeling of burning in the throat.
Chest discomfort does not always indicate a heart problem. This may be caused by tension and anxiety, where pain is experienced under the left chest. Pain caused by angina is seldom experienced in this region. This discomfort may also be caused by indigestion or gallbladder disease, where food is the main factor giving this result.
Chest discomfort and shortness of breath as angina symptoms could be serious. Whether stable or unstable, going to the hospital should be done immediately if the chest pain has become more severe or lasts longer than before. The person should also seek medical emergency in cases of chest discomfort followed by nausea, fainting, or weakness, not alleviated upon taking nitroglycerin, or happened at rest or sleep.
Whether you have a stable or an unstable angina, its symptoms should be kept in mind so that in case they become severe, you'll know when to seek medical emergency. There are foods that you can eat to reduce the risk of having this condition.
For people that has a history of this ailment or other heart diseases, asking your doctor would be a good idea to prevent the occurrence of chest discomfort and shortness of breath that may lead to severe complications.
