Symptoms occur during the spasm because the blood flow to the heart is temporarily blocked. The cause of spasm is unknown. The decrease or loss of blood flow to the heart during a spasm causes the patient to experience angina. The symptoms of angina may vary from person to person. The symptoms may even vary with each episode.
Symptoms can include a tightness, pressure, aching, or burning behind the breastbone.
This sensation may spread or radiate to the arms, neck, jaw, back, or between the shoulder blades. This discomfort may occur at rest and without warning. Other symptoms may include nausea, sweating, shortness of breath, or weakness. It is difficult to diagnose coronary artery spasm. Your physician may want to conduct a cardiac catheterization to find out if your symptoms are due to blocked coronary arteries or to spasm.