Angina affects between 2-3 million Americans each year. It is usually seen in people over 35 and increases with age. It is more likely to affect those who smoke heavily, have high blood pressure, or are more than 20lbs overweight. More men than women are diagnosed with angina. Researchers think this is due to their higher stress levels and busy schedules or eating patterns.

Symptoms include crushing or constricting pain that starts in the center of the chest and radiates to other parts of the body, like the jaws, left arm or shoulder. Burning sensation in the heart is felt. It may be misunderstood as a case of indigestion. Weakness, sweating, shortness of breath or palpitations are the symptoms of severe form of angina.

There are three main types of angina;

1. The most common is stable or classic angina. This is usually triggered by extreme physical exertion and diminishes with rest. You can usually predict what type of activities will bring on an attack and make them subside or prevent them completely.

2. A more serious type of angina is unstable angina, which is acute. It usually occurs rapidly and without warning, even while resting and is an indication of more serious heart trouble. This is a warning sign and should not be ignored. If this type occurs see a doctor as soon as possible.

3. There is a rarer type of angina called variant angina. This involves spasms of the coronary artery and occurs at regular times of the day or night.

Symptoms only last a few minutes and the heart is only deprived of the extra oxygen it needs momentarily. But if angina worsens or increases in occurrence or severity it usually means that you are at a greater risk for a heart attack. If you develop increased chest pain or new symptoms or the attack lasts longer than usual contact your doctor immediately.

If you are diagnosed with angina, a cardiologist will most likely prescribe an aspirin a day to help thin the blood. Also, you may receive high blood pressure medication if that is one of your symptoms and in some cases nitroglycerin. In rare instances (when the heart has been damaged) surgery may be needed, but with proper care this can be avoided.

If you haven't been diagnosed with angina but have any or all of these symptoms see your doctor immediately. Angina can be treated and handled with proper care, diet, exercise and medication. But left untreated it can turn into a serious heart condition.