Female Angina Pectoris
Aug 24, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Man
Introduction
Symptoms of angina pectoris in women include chest pain, chest tightness, and radiating pain. Paroxysmal chest pain is the classic symptom of angina, typically occurring in the precordial region, the mid-chest area, and within an area roughly the size of a palm—manifesting as a sensation of pressure, constriction, or burning. Not all patients with angina experience chest pain; some may present only with chest tightness and discomfort.
The term “angina pectoris” often evokes an image of intense, unmistakable pain—almost as if the pain is literally hanging over the heart. Literally translated, it suggests severe discomfort, typically causing significant distress to the patient. But what about angina in women?
Angina in Women
Symptoms of angina in women include chest pain, chest tightness, and radiating pain. Paroxysmal chest pain is the classic symptom of angina, usually occurring in the precordial region, mid-chest area, or within an area roughly the size of a palm. It commonly manifests as a sensation of pressure, constriction, or burning. Not all patients with angina experience overt chest pain; some may report only chest tightness or general discomfort. Chest pain and tightness are typically transient—symptoms usually subside gradually within 3–5 minutes upon resting quietly or taking nitroglycerin. Angina attacks are commonly triggered by physical exertion or emotional stress, typically occurring *during* activities such as childbirth, exercise, or emotional excitement—not afterward.
Radiating pain is also a common feature of angina, frequently extending to the left shoulder and medial aspect of the left arm, reaching the ring and little fingers, as well as the neck, throat, and jaw. This radiation may present as dull ache, swelling-like discomfort, numbness, or burning pain. Without prompt and appropriate treatment, angina can progress to myocardial infarction, heart failure, or sudden cardiac death. In women presenting with angina-like symptoms—particularly those who have not yet reached menopause—coronary artery disease (CAD) is generally *not* the first consideration, since premenopausal women benefit from the protective effects of estrogen and typically lack coronary atherosclerosis.
Patients are advised to undergo diagnostic evaluations—including echocardiography with color Doppler, ambulatory electrocardiography (Holter monitoring), and coronary CT angiography—as clinically indicated. These tests help clarify the diagnosis. We hope this information has been helpful.
