Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) and Angina
Main Page | Risk Factors | Symptoms | Diagnosis | Treatment | Screening | Reducing Your Risk | Talking to Your Doctor | Living With CAD and Angina | Resource Guide
Angina: Most Common Areas of Pain
Signs and symptoms of CAD , angina , and heart attack include:
- Chest pain (angina)—This may feel like heaviness, burning, choking, tightness, pressure, or squeezing, usually behind the breastbone, but sometimes starting or radiating into the arms, left shoulder, neck, back, teeth, or jaw.
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath particularly with physical exertion
- Sweating
The more signs and symptoms you have and the longer an episode of chest pain lasts (more than 15 minutes), the more likely it is that you are experiencing a heart attack, rather than an episode of angina. In this situation, seek medical care immediately.
References:
American Heart Association website. Available at: http://www.americanheart.org .
Braunwald E, Zipes D, Libby P. Heart Disease: A Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine. Philadelphia, PA: WB Saunders; 2001
Last reviewed July 2010 by Michael J. Fucci, DO
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Copyright © 2007 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.