What causes angina pectoris?

Angina pectoris is specifically caused by inadequate blood and oxygen flow to the heart muscle. This condition often arises due to factors such as coronary artery disease, where the arteries become narrowed or blocked by cholesterol deposits, limiting the blood supply during periods of increased heart activity, stress, or exertion. When the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood, it can lead to chest pain or discomfort, which is characteristic of angina.

While excessive exercise, heart arrhythmias, and high blood pressure can all have impacts on heart health, they do not directly cause angina in the same manner as inadequate blood flow. Angina is fundamentally a symptom of underlying cardiac conditions that restrict oxygen delivery during increased demand. Recognizing this is essential for both understanding angina and for effective diagnosis and treatment in clinical practice.