Angina. What is it?

Angina is a pain originating from the heart or chest area.
It may radiate to the left shoulder and down the inner side of the left arm.
The word "Angina" is derived from a Greek word meaning "strangling".
It is also known as cardiac pain of effort and emotion, meaning that it’s bought on by exercise, emotion, and such things as exposure to cold.
The pain has been described as squeezing, burning, pressing, choking, aching or bursting.
Some people say it feels like "gas" or "heartburn" or "indigestion". The pain is never described as sharp or knifelike.
Angina attacks are usually of short duration, lasting less than three minutes.
However, attacks bought on by a heavy meal or extreme anger may last for 15-20 minutes.
Angina is a temporary condition where the muscle of the heart is not receiving enough oxygen.
The condition is similar to that when the blood is squeezed from an extremity during sitting.
To relieve Angina attacks it is suggested that you stop all activity, and sit or lie down as soon as the attack begins.
If you have not consulted a doctor previously about this condition, it is suggested you do as soon as possible.
Medications are available that help to relieve Angina pain, such as Nitroglycerin tablets and spray.
If you suffer from Angina it is important to carry these medications with you at all times and relatives and friends should know where your supply is kept.
If after taking this medication you get a headache, feel dizzy or your skin flushes, don’t be alarmed, as these are side effects and will lessen as your tolerance increases.
Repeat the dosage every five minutes until relief is obtained.
If the pain hasn’t subsided it is suggested that you call your physician or an ambulance to take you to the nearest emergency room.
On the Peninsula an additional service is provided by Brisbane Waters Private Hospital called the "Chest Pain Emergency Service", where an immediate assessment can be made of your condition by a 24-hour experienced resident medical officer and immediate admission into the cardiac unit if necessary.
To register for this service or obtain information ring 4343 0240.
Angina can prevented by avoiding activities that cause stress, a regular gentle exercise program, quit smoking, eat a well-balanced high-fibre, low fat and salt diet, regulate alcohol intake and overweight people are urged to reduce.
Activities must be adjusted to a level below that which triggers angina attacks.
To obtain more information please contact your General Practicioner, the National Heart Foundation or the Chest Pain Emergency Co-ordinator at Brisbane Waters Private Hospital.