When it comes to chest pain or discomfort, it can be difficult to determine the cause. Chest pain can be a sign of angina or a heart attack, both of which require prompt medical attention.

But what is the difference between angina and a heart attack? Let’s take a closer look.

What is Angina?

Angina is a type of chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle is not receiving enough blood and oxygen. This can happen when the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart, are narrowed or blocked.

The most common cause of angina is coronary artery disease, which is a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Angina is typically described as a feeling of pressure or tightness in the chest. It may also be described as a squeezing, burning, or heaviness in the chest. The pain or discomfort may also be felt in the arms, neck, jaw, shoulder, or back.

Angina typically occurs during physical activity, emotional stress, or after eating a heavy meal. It may go away with rest or medication.

What is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack, also known as myocardial infarction, occurs when the blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, depriving the heart muscle of oxygen. This can lead to damage or death of the heart tissue.

A heart attack is a medical emergency and requires prompt treatment to minimize damage to the heart muscle.

The symptoms of a heart attack may include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, dizziness or lightheadedness, and pain or discomfort in the arms, neck, jaw, shoulder, or back.

The chest pain or discomfort is typically described as a feeling of pressure, squeezing, fullness, or tightness. The pain or discomfort may last for more than a few minutes or may come and go.

What are the Differences Between Angina and a Heart Attack?

There are several differences between angina and a heart attack:.

Cause

The cause of angina is a lack of blood and oxygen to the heart muscle, usually due to narrowed or blocked coronary arteries.

The cause of a heart attack is a blockage in one of the coronary arteries, which prevents blood and oxygen from reaching a part of the heart muscle.

Severity

Angina is typically less severe than a heart attack. The pain or discomfort associated with angina typically goes away with rest or medication.

A heart attack is a medical emergency and can cause permanent damage to the heart muscle if not treated promptly.

Duration

The symptoms of angina typically last for a few minutes, while the symptoms of a heart attack may last for more than a few minutes or may come and go.

Location of Pain or Discomfort

The location of the pain or discomfort can also be different between angina and a heart attack. Angina may be felt in the chest, arms, neck, jaw, shoulder, or back.

A heart attack may also be felt in these areas, but the pain or discomfort is typically focused on the chest and may feel like a heavy weight or pressure.

When Should You Seek Medical Attention?

If you are experiencing chest pain or discomfort, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Even if you are not sure if you are having angina or a heart attack, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Call 911 or your local emergency services right away.

While you are waiting for medical attention, you may be instructed to chew and swallow an aspirin, which can help to thin the blood and improve blood flow to the heart.

If you have nitroglycerin, a medication that can help to widen the blood vessels and improve blood flow, you may be instructed to take it.

Once you arrive at the hospital, medical professionals will perform tests to determine the cause of the chest pain or discomfort.

These tests may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), blood tests, and imaging tests such as a chest X-ray or echocardiogram.

Preventing Angina and Heart Attacks

There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing angina or having a heart attack:.

Quit smoking
Eat a healthy diet and maintain a healthy weight
Get regular exercise
Manage stress
Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes
Take medications as prescribed

If you have a family history of heart disease, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about steps you can take to reduce your risk.

Conclusion

Angina and a heart attack are both serious medical conditions that require prompt attention. While the symptoms of these conditions can be similar, there are important differences between them.

If you are experiencing chest pain or discomfort, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. Taking steps to reduce your risk of developing these conditions can also help to protect your heart health.