Is Angina a sign of a heart attack?

Angina is a symptom that can indicate an underlying heart condition, and in some cases, it can be a sign of an impending heart attack. However, not all cases of angina lead to a heart attack. Angina is typically caused by coronary artery disease (CAD), where the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart muscle are narrowed or blocked, reducing the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart. This can result in chest pain or discomfort, which is the hallmark of angina. There are different types of angina, including stable angina, unstable angina, and variant angina. Stable angina is usually predictable and occurs during physical exertion or emotional stress, while unstable angina can occur without any apparent trigger and may indicate a higher risk of a heart attack. Variant angina, also known as Prinzmetal's angina, is less common and is caused by the spasm of a coronary artery. It's important to note that while angina can be a warning sign of a heart attack, not everyone who experiences a heart attack has prior angina. Some people may have a heart attack without any prior symptoms. In summary, angina can be a sign of a heart attack, particularly when it is unstable or occurs without a clear cause. However, it is not a definitive predictor, and anyone experiencing chest pain or discomfort should seek medical attention promptly to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Angina (Chest Pain) A ngina is chest pain or discomfort caused when your heart muscle doesn't get enough oxygen-rich blood. It may feel like pressure or squeezing in your chest. ... Angina can also be a symptom of coronary microvascular disease (MVD).