Angina refers to chest pain or discomfort due to lack of oxygen in the heart. As per the American Heart Association, the condition is not a disease, but it is a symptom of an underlying heart problem, such as coronary heart disease. Classified as stable, unstable, variant, Prinzmetal, and microvascular, the condition affects women than men. The following are the causes, signs and symptoms, and home remedies for angina.
Causes
The primary cause of angina is lack of oxygen supply in the heart muscles. As per the American Heart Association, this is secondary to narrowing or blockage of one or more of the coronary arteries. According to the organization, this condition is called ischemia. According to Mayo Clinic, the causes are also correlated with the type of angina. For instance, stable angina is due to physical exertion while unstable angina is related to fat deposits, clot formation, and blood vessel rupture. Meanwhile, Prinzmetal angina is due to temporary narrowing of the artery secondary to coronary spasms. Other conditions that may lead to angina, as cited by the American Heart Association, include panic attack pericarditis, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, lung infections, aortic dissection, and pulmonary embolism.
Signs and Symptoms
Angina itself is already a symptom, but it is associated with several other symptoms. According to Mayo Clinic, these include chest pain or discomfort; pain in the arms, jaw, neck, shoulder; or back; nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath; dizziness; and sweating. Some people may describe it as a feeling that a heavy weight has been placed on their chest while others compare it to indigestion.
Home Remedies
While pain medications are part of the medical management for angina, home remedies can also be done to resolve the condition.
Garlic
One remedy for angina is garlic. According to Top 10 Home Remedies, garlic stands as one of the most efficient home remedies for chest pain. As per the publication, a 2006 study published in the “Journal of Nutrition” found that regular consumption of the flavoring spice helps prevent and postpone the development of cardiovascular diseases. Garlic has properties, which reduce high cholesterol levels and prevent plaque formation in the arterial walls. As an effect, blood flow is not compromised and oxygenated blood will be able to circulate in the heart. To prepare, as per the publication, the person adds garlic juice to hot water and drinks it. For prevention, the person eats one or two raw garlic cloves with water every morning on an empty stomach.
Fish Oil
Another remedy for angina is fish oil. According to News Max, fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids which are known to decrease low-density lipoproteins or bad cholesterol and triglycerides. As a result, blood flow is improved. As per the publication, excellent sources of omega-3 include fish species like tuna, salmon, herring, and sardines. Omega-3 pills are also available in the market; however, its effectiveness in angina management is still being discussed.
Lemon
Another remedy for angina is lemon. Along with vitamin C, it prevents cholesterol build up in the blood vessels, preventing atherosclerosis or obstruction in the blood vessels. Also, it acts as a natural angina deterrent that it is best for angina patients to include it in their everyday diet, as per Organic Facts. According to the publication, the person may squeeze lemon over salads and as an alternative, it can be squeezed in water to produce fresh lemon water.
Angina stands as a symptom of a heart disease and persistent lack of oxygenation in the heart results to tissue necrosis and myocardial infarction. Thus, it is best to consider medical consult for further assessment, planning, intervention, education, and evaluation.
