Angina Pectoris: Most Effective Dietary Supplements

The coronary arteries supply blood to the heart muscle (myocardium), bringing it oxygenated blood. A decrease in myocardial perfusion (ischemia) causes chest pain, also called angina or angina pectoris. This ischemia is generally due to a decreased caliber of the coronary arteries. There are two main types of angina pectoris: stable angina, triggered by exertion, and unstable angina, which can occur at rest and signals an increased risk of myocardial infarction.

Symptoms

Angina often manifests as a sensation of pressure, discomfort, or tightness in the left part of the chest, precipitated by effort, excitement or cold, and relieved by rest. In some patients, the pain may radiate to the left arm, jaw, or more rarely to the right arm. In severe cases, it may be accompanied by dyspnea (difficulty breathing), diaphoresis (excessive sweating) or nausea. However, not all patients experience these classic symptoms. In some people, myocardial ischemia may cause atypical symptoms, such as jaw pain, fatigue, discomfort in the arms, or pain in the upper abdomen. Additionally, myocardial ischemia can be silent (asymptomatic), especially in diabetic patients.

Etiology

The primary cause of angina pectoris is coronary atherosclerosis, accounting for 90% of cases. Risk factors include hypertension, smoking, type 1 diabetes, states of insulin resistance (such as type 2 diabetes and obesity), hypercholesterolemia, and family history of premature vascular disease. Angina can also result from rarer conditions, where the heart's oxygen demand exceeds its supply. These causes include coronary artery anomalies, coronary spasm (Prinzmetal's angina), aortic stenosis, anemia, hyperthyroidism, cocaine use, carbon monoxide poisoning, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Treatment

Treatment is based on taking medications to prevent attacks, as well as lifestyle changes. It is recommended to stop smoking, adopt a balanced diet, and monitor weight.

Prevention

Prevention involves strict management of atherosclerosis risk factors. Patients should be informed of the importance of reducing cholesterol and saturated fat intake in their diet, losing weight if obese, and avoiding tobacco. A regular exercise program should also be proposed to patients where possible.