Differences between Angina and Heart Attack
Cause
Signs & Symptoms
Angina
A temporary decrease of oxygen
to the heart muscle.
Pain
Aching
Burning
Pressure
Fullness
Usually felt in chest, throat,
or left arm
Heart Attack
An extended decrease of oxygen
to the heart muscle, which causes
permanent damage.
Pain is like that of angina but
often more intense.
You may also have:
Nausea
Shortness of breath
Weakness
Dizziness
Sweating
Pain may travel to jaw, neck,
shoulder, or back.
Triggers
Some people describe it as an
“elephant on the chest” feeling,
but pain and pressure are not
always severe, especially in
women or people who have
diabetes.
Exertion
Stress
Cold
High altitude
Meals
Exertion
Stress
Cold
High altitude
Meals
Relieved by
Nitroglycerin
Rest
If symptoms occur
1. Rest.
2. Take nitroglycerin if ordered.*
3. Contact doctor if pain occurs
more often or is more severe.
May also occur at rest.
Usually not relieved by
nitroglycerin.
Requires strong pain
medication.
1. Rest.
2. Take nitroglycerin if ordered.*
3. Call 911 for emergency help.
2. Wait 5 minutes.
4. While waiting for Emergency Medical
Services, you may take a third dose
if the pain is still present 5 minutes
after taking the second tablet.
3. If pain is still present, call 911 and
place another tablet under the tongue.
Do not take more than 3 nitroglycerin
tablets.
*If nitroglycerin is ordered for chest pain:
1. Place 1 tablet under the tongue.
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