Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) and Angina

Animation Movie Available Related Media: What is Angina Pectoris?

Angina: Most Common Areas of Pain

Signs and symptoms of CAD , angina , and heart attack include:

Chest pain (angina)—This may feel like heaviness, burning, choking, tightness, pressure, or squeezing, usually behind the breastbone, but sometimes starting or radiating into the arms, left shoulder, neck, back, teeth, or jaw.
Nausea and/or vomiting
Dizziness
Lightheadedness
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath particularly with physical exertion
Sweating

The more signs and symptoms you have and the longer an episode of chest pain lasts (more than 15 minutes), the more likely it is that you are experiencing a heart attack, rather than an episode of angina. In this situation, seek medical care immediately.

References

American Heart Association website. Available at: http://www.americanheart.org .

Braunwald E, Zipes D, Libby P. Heart Disease: A Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine. Philadelphia, PA: WB Saunders; 2001

Revision Information

Reviewer: Michael J. Fucci, DO
Review Date: 09/2012
Update Date: 00/91/2012

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.