There are a variety of causes or contributory factors to the health condition, angina. There are a few different types of angina or a few different ways in which it manifests, as well.

Generally speaking, however, angina occurs when there is a significantly reduced flow of blood to the heart.

What causes a decrease in blood to flow to the heart?

* Coronary artery disease (CAD)

* Other types of heart disease

* Uncontrolled high blood pressure

The health of arteries is important to maintain for good heart health, especially the coronary arteries. The coronary arteries carry oxygenized blood to the heart.

If these arteries are blocked by fat deposits or plaque, then this no oxygen or blood can get to the heart to sustain its function. This plaque buildup is called atherosclerosis.

Plaque

There are two ways in which plaque can clog arteries and damage your health.

The first is when it hardens and creates a smaller pathway than usual for the oxygenized blood to pass through.

The second way is when the plaque is malleable and soft; in this case, it can break off from the arterial walls and cause blood clots.

Either way, the flow of blood to the hear is significantly decreased. Without the oxygen in the blood, the heart and the brain won't function for long.

Stable Angina

Stable angina describes the health condition in which, most of the time, oxygen is carried to the heart despite very narrow arteries created by hardened plaque.

However under high emotional or physical stress in which the heart needs more oxygen, angina becomes a problem.

Other stressors that may provoke an attack including extreme temperatures, large meals, and smoking.

Unstable Angina

Unstable angina is caused by soft plaque that breaks away from the arterial walls and creates blood clots, which block the artery.

If totally blocked, a heart attack may occur. Chest pain accompanies each incidence of blockage by an artery.

For Important Information Regarding Heart Disease and Agina Go To Heart Disease Symptoms