The arteries become calcified and lose elasticity. As this process continues, blood flow slows. A heart attack usually occurs when a blood clot forms completely sealing off the passage of blood. Angina Angina is not a disease itself but is the primary symptom of coronary artery disease. It is typically experienced as chest pain, which can be mild, moderate, or severe, but is often reported as a dull, heavy pressure that may resemble a crushing object on the chest.
Pain often radiates to the neck, jaw, or left shoulder and arm.
Less commonly, patients report mild burning chest discomfort, sharp chest pain, or pain that radiates to the right arm or back. Sometimes a patient experiences shortness of breath, fatigue, or palpitations instead of pain. Classic angina is precipitated by exertion, stress, or exposure to cold and is relieved by rest or nitroglycerin. Angina can also be precipitated by large meals, which place an immediate demand upon the heart for more oxygen. The intensity of the pain does not always relate to the severity of the medical problem.