Angina Pectoris Overview

5 cards

A concise summary of angina pectoris covering its definition, causes, types, pathophysiology, symptoms, and management strategies.

5 cards

Review

Question

What does the term **angina pectoris** literally mean in Latin, and what sensation does it describe?

Answer

**Angere** (to strangle/choke) + **pectoris** (chest) — describes a strangling or choking sensation in the chest.

Question

What is the key difference between **stable angina** and **unstable angina** in terms of triggers and relief?

Answer

**Stable angina** is triggered by exertion/excitement and relieved by rest or nitrates; **unstable angina** is caused by thrombi, occurs at rest, and is not relieved by rest or nitrates.

Question

Name two typical symptoms of angina pectoris involving the chest and respiratory system.

Answer

Heaviness on the chest and dyspnea (shortness of breath).

Question

What is **Prinzmetal angina**, and how does its cause differ from stable and unstable angina?

Answer

A variant caused by coronary artery **vasospasm**, not by atherosclerotic plaques or thrombi; it shows an elevated ST segment on ECG.

Question

How do **atherosclerotic plaques** contribute to angina by affecting blood pressure and vessel integrity?

Answer

Plaques narrow the lumen, increasing total peripheral resistance (

\uparrow

TPR), which raises blood pressure and can rupture the vessel.

Start a quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions