Topic overview

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Angina may occur when reduced blood flow limits oxygen delivery to the myocardium; atherosclerotic plaque in the coronary arteries is a leading cause. The topic distinguishes stable angina, often triggered by exertion or stress and relieved by rest or nitroglycerin, from unstable angina, which may occur at rest and is a medical emergency. It also introduces variant angina, associated with coronary artery spasms, and microvascular angina, related to dysfunction of small coronary arteries. The lesson’s broader structure covers risk factors, causes, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and management. Management may involve medications, lifestyle changes, and, when necessary, procedures such as angioplasty or coronary artery bypass grafting.