Angina ? The Cause and How To Treat It - By: Richard P Green

For some men and women angina can produce a tightening sensation around their chest. The chest pain is often the result of a lack of oxygen getting to the heart muscles and valves. Pain can result in other parts of the body with the most common being the neck area, arms, shoulders and the back.

Angina can be easily mistaken for symptoms caused by other conditions for example, it can be often confused with either indigestion or reflux disease. However, if the pain or discomfort becomes persistent it can signal a more serious problem. In many cases angina can be a common underlying symptom of coronary heart disease.

Angina is often caused by a process called atherosclerosis which is a slow and gradual build up of fat that clings to the inside of the arteries. Atherosclerosis can also be described as the "hardening of the arteries" although the deposits of fat or not hard but soft in texture. These fatty deposits are also referred to as plaque as it has the similar consistency of the plaque that collects on our teeth.

This collection of fat around the walls of the arteries is caused by calcium which builds up over time. If hypertension and an unhealthy lifestyle are involved this can result in the walls of arteries becoming weaker. Over time the process of atherosclerosis can create a thickening of the blood or blood clots in the arteries. As these blood clots build up they begin to reduce the arteries circumference. This reduces the area for the blood to flow and therefore begins to constrict the flow of blood to the heart.

As time passes the gradual formation of plaque on the artery walls will build up. This will lead to a total blockage of the artery and an eventual heart attack. But, it is not all negative because angina can be improved and even reversed. By making certain lifestyle changes you can help to improve and even reverse the condition.

This can begin by removing the types of foods that are creating the problem in the first place. This includes processed foods that are high in salt and preservatives. Also, foods that is high in fat and sugar. These should be replaced by organic fruit and vegetables.

Regular exercise is also important therefore, plan to exercise three or four times per week. If you have not done any physical exercise for a long time then start off slowly.

There are certain habits that can heighten the risk of either a stroke or heart disease and these include cigarettes and booze. Therefore, you should stop smoking and cut down on the booze.

With these changes to your lifestyle you will reap the benefits of better health, improved moods and of course lowering your risk of angina, heart disease and stroke. It is important to point out at this stage that this article is not offering medical advise. Therefore, you should always consult with either a qualified physician or health care worker for medical recommendations about changing your diet or taking up exercise.

About the Author

Bob Green also covers topics relating to careers in the medical industry. Find out the earning potential of http://radiologytechniciansalaryadviser.com/radiologic-technologist-salary/"> by visiting radiologytechniciansalaryadviser.com today.

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