Is Angina a Precursor to a Heart Attack?

Chest pain is always cause for concern. But not all chest pain means you’re having a heart attack. 

For many people, angina is the first sign that something’s not quite right with their heart. While it may come and go with exertion or stress, angina is more than just discomfort – it’s a potential red flag.

So what does angina really mean? And more importantly, could it be the indicator that a heart attack is coming? Here at Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology, we want you to understand more about angina and how to recognize it. 

In this blog, we break down angina and when you should be concerned that it could signal a heart attack.

What is angina?

Angina isn't a disease or illness in itself — it's a symptom of an underlying heart condition, typically coronary artery disease (CAD). 

When the arteries supplying the heart become narrowed or blocked by plaque buildup (atherosclerosis), blood flow slows down. As a result, you experience feelings of pressure, squeezing, burning, or fullness in the chest. Some people also feel it in the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back.

There are two primary types of angina:

Stable angina

This type occurs predictably during physical exertion or stress and usually goes away with rest or medication.

Unstable angina

Unstable angina happens unexpectedly. It may last longer than stable angina and doesn't always respond to rest or medication. Unstable angina is a medical emergency.

Is angina a warning sign?

Angina — especially unstable angina — is a serious warning sign that your heart isn't getting enough oxygen-rich blood. While we may be able to help you manage stable angina with lifestyle changes and medication, it still indicates the presence of coronary artery disease and an increased risk for heart attack.

But unstable angina is more urgent. It often means that a heart attack could be imminent. Contact us right away (or an urgent care provider if after hours) if you’re experiencing unstable angina. It’s a red flag for a potentially life-threatening event.

How does angina differ from a heart attack?

Angina and a heart attack both present with chest pain, but the underlying mechanism and consequences differ.

Angina occurs when the heart muscle doesn't get enough oxygen due to narrowed arteries. It's typically temporary and doesn't cause permanent damage.

A heart attack happens when a coronary artery becomes completely blocked, cutting off blood supply. This leads to the death of part of the heart muscle and requires immediate emergency care.

Basically, all heart attacks involve chest pain, but not all chest pain is a heart attack. Remember, though, ongoing or worsening angina can be the final step before a heart attack occurs.

What to do if you have angina

If you're experiencing chest discomfort, don’t ignore it. This is especially true if it's new, more frequent, or occurs at rest. Call to make an immediate appointment at Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology. 

We may recommend the following screenings and treatments:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG) or stress testing
• Cardiac imaging or coronary angiography
• Lifestyle modifications like diet, exercise, and quitting smoking
• Medications to manage symptoms and improve blood flow

In more advanced cases, you may require procedures such as stenting or bypass surgery.

How can I prevent angina?

Heart disease often develops silently. That’s why routine primary care visits and cardiovascular screenings are so important, especially if you have risk factors such as:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Family history of heart disease
• Smoking
• Sedentary lifestyle

Angina is not just simple chest pain. It’s a signal from your heart that it’s in distress. While not every case leads directly to a heart attack, ignoring angina means you may be just sitting back as lasting damage occurs.

At Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology, we specialize in identifying, managing, and preventing cardiovascular disease through a blend of comprehensive primary care and advanced cardiology services. 

If you’re experiencing chest pain or have questions about your heart health, don’t wait. We’re here to help. Call our office or use our online tool to schedule an appointment today at our West Bridgewater, Massachusetts, practice, conveniently located near Boston.