Angina is chest pain or discomfort that occurs when an area of your heart muscle doesn't get enough oxygen-rich blood. Typically, it is a symptom of coronary artery disease. Angina may feel like pressure or squeezing in your chest. The pain also may occur in your shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back, and can also feel like indigestion.
Angina usually occurs during exertion, severe emotional stress, or after a heavy meal. It usually lasts from one to 15 minutes and is relieved by rest or by placing a nitroglycerin tablet under the tongue. Nitroglycerin relaxes the blood vessels and lowers blood pressure.
The Chest Pain Centers at SSM hospitals act quickly if angina is suspected. Patients determined to have cardiac-related chest pain can be moved quickly to a treatment unit, including a cardiac catheterization lab to open blockages using the latest technology.