Lesson 38: Angina

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📘 Lesson Summary

Angina is a type of chest pain that occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood.

It is usually caused by narrowed coronary arteries and is often triggered by physical activity, stress, or emotional upset.

In this lesson, you will learn how to recognise angina and provide appropriate first aid.

⭐ What is Angina?

Angina is a symptom of underlying heart disease.

It typically presents as chest discomfort or pain and may feel:

  • Tight
  • Heavy
  • Squeezing or crushing

👉 It usually improves with rest or medication, such as prescribed nitrates.

🔍 Recognition

Common signs and symptoms of angina include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Vice-like or crushing chest pain
  • Pain that may spread to the arm, neck, jaw, or back
  • Sweating
  • Light-headedness or dizziness
  • Anxiety

👉 Symptoms usually last a few minutes and ease with rest.

⚠️ Triggers

Angina is often triggered by:

  • Physical exertion
  • Stress or strong emotions
  • Cold weather
  • After eating a large meal

🚨 When Angina Becomes Serious

Angina may indicate a more serious condition, such as a heart attack, if:

  • The pain is severe or worsening
  • It lasts longer than 5 minutes
  • It does not improve with rest or medication
  • The casualty has no previous history of angina

👉 Always treat as a medical emergency if unsure.

🩺 First Aid Treatment

If someone is experiencing angina:

  • Help them to sit down and rest in a comfortable position
  • Reassure them and keep them calm
  • Ask if they have their prescribed medication (e.g. GTN spray or tablets)
  • Assist them to take it if needed

👉 Wait and monitor their condition

🚨 Call for Emergency Help

📞 Call 999 / 112 immediately if:

  • Pain persists after 5 minutes
  • Medication does not relieve symptoms
  • Symptoms worsen
  • This is their first episode of chest pain

👉 Be prepared to treat as a heart attack

💡 Key Takeaways

  • Angina is caused by reduced blood flow to the heart
  • It often improves with rest and medication
  • Recognise the signs of chest pain and discomfort
  • Always take chest pain seriously
  • Call emergency services if symptoms persist or worsen