The Primary Causes of Angina Explained

Angina, a common symptom of heart disease, primarily occurs due to insufficient blood supply to the heart muscles. This condition is closely related to the coronary arteries — the main blood vessels responsible for delivering oxygen-rich blood to the heart. The aorta, which is the largest artery in the body, gives rise to two major coronary arteries: the right coronary artery and the left coronary artery. These arteries wrap around the heart, providing essential blood flow to all areas of the cardiac muscle.

Understanding the Mechanism of Angina

When the coronary arteries fail to supply adequate blood, especially during periods of increased physical or emotional demand, the heart muscle begins to rely on anaerobic metabolism. This process produces lactic acid as a byproduct, which accumulates in the tissue and stimulates nerve endings, resulting in the characteristic chest pain known as angina.

Key Causes of Reduced Coronary Blood Flow

There are two primary reasons why the coronary arteries may not deliver enough blood to the heart muscle:

1. Physiological Factors

One potential cause is aortic insufficiency, a condition where the aortic valve does not close properly. This results in reduced blood flow into the coronary arteries during the heart's relaxation phase. Consequently, the heart receives less oxygenated blood, leading to ischemia and possible angina symptoms.

2. Atherosclerosis and Plaque Buildup

The most common cause of angina is the development of atherosclerotic plaques within the coronary arteries. These plaques form when lipids, cholesterol, and other substances accumulate on the inner walls of the blood vessels. Over time, this buildup narrows the arterial lumen, restricting blood flow and reducing the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle. This process, known as atherosclerosis, significantly increases the risk of angina and other cardiovascular complications.