Signs and symptoms of angina

Learn the signs and symptoms of angina.

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What are the signs and symptoms of angina?

Symptoms of angina include:

  • sharp, burning or cramping pain
  • numbness or lack of feeling in your:
    • arms
    • wrists
    • shoulders
  • a constant feeling of indigestion that is moderate to severe
  • a dull pain that begins in the middle of your chest and spreads to your:
    • jaw
    • neck
    • back
    • throat
    • left arm
  • a feeling of tightness, pressure, squeezing and/or aching in your chest or arm(s)

Symptoms of angina are often experienced after physical exertion or emotional stress.

What do you do if you have angina?

Angina and a heart attack can feel similar. Act quickly if you or someone else has chest pain or tightness. You should:

  • take your prescribed medication if your health care provider is already treating you for angina
    • if the medication does not make you feel better quickly, call 911 or your local emergency number
  • call 911 or your local emergency number if you are not being treated for angina and still have chest pain
    • do this right away, even if the chest pain does not flow to your arms or jaw   

The symptoms of angina can be relieved with rest or medication.

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