Angina is not a disease; it is most often a symptom of a heart problem.

Chronic angina is the most common kind of angina. Angina is called chronic when it has been present for months or years without much change. Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the heart problem that most commonly leads to chronic angina. CHD is also known as coronary artery disease (CAD).²

In CHD, the arteries in your heart are narrow and blocked. That means blood cannot flow easily and bring oxygen to the heart.^2,3 This lack of oxygen can cause the pain and discomfort of angina.² Angina is the way your heart tells you it needs more oxygen.^2,3

Speak with your cardiologist about your angina. Let your cardiologist know what symptoms you are having. Tell your cardiologist how angina affects all areas of your life, including your emotions. Together you can talk about ways to manage your angina.