Angina is not a disease but is a symptom of heart trouble. It is a pain or discomfort that happens when part of the heart muscle is not getting enough blood. It is usually brief, lasting just a few minutes.

You may have pressure, tightness or pain in your chest, arms, shoulder, neck, jaw or upper back, or have stomach indigestion.

Angina discomfort often is temporary. It usually occurs during physical activity, after eating a heavy meal, after being outside when the temperature is below 32° F or above 80° F or during emotional situations.

When angina occurs:

• Stop the activity. This is a sign your heart is not getting enough oxygen.
• Rest.
• If the pain does not go away in one to two minutes, place a nitroglycerin tablet under your tongue and sit down.
• If the pain does not go away in five minutes, take another nitroglycerin.
• If the pain still doesn’t go away, call 911, take another nitroglycerin and one uncoated aspirin. The aspirin acts as a blood thinner.

Ways to avoid angina include:

• Eat small, frequent meals.
• Avoid heavy exercise or physical activity for one hour after eating.
• Check your heart rate during activity and do not exceed 20 beats above resting.
• Do not stay out for long periods in very hot or very cold temperatures (above 80° F, below 32° F or high humidity).
• Avoid hot tubs and saunas.
• Manage stress.
• Take your medications as prescribed by your doctor.

WARNING SIGNS
Angina	Heart Attack
Symptoms may occur with or without activity and do not stop with rest. Chest tightness, pressure, burning – with or without pain – may go to arms or back. Shortness of breath, extreme tiredness, dizziness, nausea, sweating, heartburn.	Symptoms may occur with or without activity and do not stop with rest. Chest tightness, pressure, burning – with or without pain – may go to arms or back. Shortness of breath, extreme tiredness, dizziness, nausea, sweating, heartburn.

Where angina discomfort can occur: