Angina is a medical condition caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. Angina symptoms can come on suddenly and are usually prompted by physical or emotional exertion or stress. Angina symptoms can mimic those of a heart attack; however, angina can be resolved with rest, while a heart attack cannot. Angina symptoms that do not get better with rest may indicate a more serious heart condition. Angina affects both women and men and generally occurs in people who have cardiovascular conditions, such as coronary artery disease. Women tend to develop angina at a later age than men do and may experience angina-related symptoms differently than men do.
Discomfort
A woman may experience a stabbing chest pain or feel a pulsing sensation in the chest. She may also feel a dull ache or pressure in her chest. A 2001 study published in the journal "Social Science & Medicine" reports that women tend to feel more neck, jaw and throat pain during angina than men. Chest discomfort is often the first symptom of angina and may or may not be accompanied by additional symptoms. Discomfort that does not go away with rest may be more serious than angina-related discomfort, and requires urgent medical evaluation.
Trouble Breathing
Angina slows blood flow to the heart, which also affects the lungs and brain. A woman may have trouble breathing and feel as if her lungs are constricted. She may have trouble taking a deep breath and respirations can become rapid and shallow. Trouble breathing can reduce oxygen levels to the brain even more, resulting in fatigue and dizziness. Rest can help restore normal blood flow to the heart and lungs and prevent falls should fainting occur.
Indigestion
A woman may feel the sudden onset of abdominal pain or indigestion during angina. She may have the sensation of burning or bitterness in her throat or stomach, similar to heartburn. Nausea and vomiting may occur if indigestion is severe. Cedars-Sinai Medical Center states that women are more likely to experience angina-related indigestion if they recently ate before the angina symptoms began. Women can also experience pain in the abdomen that may accompany chest discomfort.
