Anginal attacks may occur frequently over a 24-hour period or may be erratic, occurring every few days, weeks or even months. Attacks of angina often occur when exercise, strong emotion or extreme temperatures increase the heart's need for oxygen. It can also be triggered by consumption of alcohol and smoking. Angina Pectoris can be relieved by rest or nitroglycerin. Angina can also be caused by large meals, which place an immediate demand upon the heart for more oxygen.
Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of angina.
However, in some cases, angina is caused by spasms of the muscles that control blood flow in the arteries. This is called variant angina. These attacks may occur even when a person is at rest. Angina and can be treated. Most anginal attacks usually last for only a few minutes, and most can be relieved by rest.