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Anginal pains can be very frightening, but are seldom life threatening. Inadequate supply of blood and oxygen to the heart is the main reason. In moments of extra exertion, when the heart needs more oxygen. sometimes, it is not able to do so as the arteries may be too narrow and this is when anginal pain is felt.

Causes

Symptoms

Pain in the chest which is crushing, constricting, strangling, suffocating, sharp or burning The pain may radiate to both arms or commonly along the left arm to the little finger and the jaw, teeth, neck, throat, epigastric region and between the shoulder blades (back) Pain occurs with exertion, or when doing some activity & subsides on rest Short lasting pain few seconds to minutes.
Associated symptoms may or may not be Shortness of breath or suffocative feeling Anxiety Palpitation Nausea.

Do's & Dont's

Stop smoking.
Stop Alcohol & don't overeat or eat rich, heavy meals.
Maintain a low fat and low cholesterol diet.
Decrease tea & coffee intake.
Do not exert especially immediately after meals.
If you have chest discomfort at night tilt the head end of the bed up by 3-4 inches.
Learn to control your emotions.
If Diabetic, maintain a sugar-free diet.
Control Hypertension.
Try to keep your weight normal or lose weight if need be Regular, gentle exercise such as walking swimming or cycling is safe. But consult your doctor before starting any exercise regimen.
Vitamins like B-complex are helpful in strees and tiredness while calcium and magnesium supplements are good for the heart.
Avoid coffee, tea, colas, as they increase blood pressure.
Use unsaturated oil (as little as possible) for working.
Avoid large amounts of salt, sugar or alcohol.
A glass of wine may be helpful.
Take regular medication.
Do not take birth control pills if you have angina.
Do not start medication on your own.
Contact Your Doctor Immediately, If the pain lasts for more than 10-15 minutes. This may be a heart attack.
If attacks are become intense, prolonged, frequent If the attack includes a "cold sweat".