The main cause of angina is coronary heart disease.
Understanding Angina and its Primary Cause
Angina is chest pain or discomfort caused when the heart muscle doesn't get enough oxygen-rich blood. This lack of blood flow is most often due to a condition called coronary heart disease.
How Coronary Heart Disease Leads to Angina:
- Plaque Buildup: Coronary heart disease involves the buildup of plaque (a fatty substance) inside the coronary arteries. These arteries are responsible for supplying the heart muscle with blood.
- Narrowed Arteries: Over time, plaque accumulation narrows the arteries, restricting blood flow.
- Reduced Oxygen Supply: When the heart muscle doesn't receive enough oxygen, especially during physical activity or stress, it can trigger angina symptoms.
In summary, according to the reference:
The most common cause [of angina] is coronary heart disease. This is when the arteries that supply your heart muscle with blood and oxygen are narrowed by a fatty substance called plaque. It means less blood flows to your heart muscle and can cause angina symptoms.
