Angina refers to the pain arising from lack of adequate blood supply to the heart muscle. Typically, it is a crushing pain behind the breastbone in the center of the chest, brought on by exertion and relieved by rest. It may at times radiate to or arise in the left arm, neck, jaw, left chest, or back. It is frequently accompanied by sweating, palpitations of the heart, and generally lasts a matter of minutes. Similar pain syndromes may be caused by other diseases, including esophagitis, gall bladder disease, ulcers, and others. Diagnosis of angina begins with the recognition of the...
place in heart disease remains to be seen, they promise to play an increasingly important role.

When medications are unsuccessful, or if there is concern about an impending or potential heart attack, coronary bypass surgery is highly successful in reducing symptoms. Whether or not it prolongs survival is questionable for most patients.

Angina which is new or somehow different from previous episodes in any way is termed unstable angina, is a medical emergency, and requires urgent attention. Research is active, and careful medical follow-up is important.mergency, and requires urgent attention. Research is active, and careful medical follow-up is important.