Stable angina

Definition

Stable angina, also known as effort angina, is chest pain or discomfort that typically occurs with activity or stress and is relieved by rest or nitroglycerin. It is caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle due to coronary artery disease.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Stable angina is predictable and follows a regular pattern.
2. It is often triggered by physical exertion, emotional stress, or heavy meals.
3. Nitroglycerin is commonly used to relieve symptoms of stable angina quickly.
4. Beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and nitrates are primary pharmacological treatments for stable angina.
5. Unlike unstable angina, stable angina does not indicate an imminent heart attack but requires monitoring and management.

Review Questions

• What are common triggers for stable angina?
• How does nitroglycerin help in relieving the symptoms of stable angina?
• Name at least two classes of drugs used in the treatment of stable angina.

Related terms

Unstable Angina: A type of chest pain that occurs unpredictably and may signal an impending heart attack.

Myocardial Ischemia: A condition where blood flow to the heart muscle is reduced, causing chest pain.

Nitroglycerin: A medication used to relieve chest pain by dilating blood vessels and increasing blood flow to the heart.