angina screening test preparation

Overview

Angina is chest pain or discomfort that happens when your heart muscle doesn't get enough oxygen-rich blood. It's often a warning sign of heart disease. Screening tests for angina help find this condition early so it can be managed.

Yes, angina is common. It affects millions of people worldwide, especially as they get older.

Angina is most common in people over 50, but it can also affect younger adults, especially those with risk factors like smoking, diabetes, or high blood pressure.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Chest pain or discomfort that feels like pressure, squeezing, or fullness.
• Pain that may spread to your arms, neck, jaw, shoulders, or back.
• Shortness of breath, especially during activity.
• Fatigue or weakness when you exert yourself.

Symptoms in children

• Angina is very rare in children. Symptoms would be similar to adults, but children may have trouble describing the pain.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults might not have typical chest pain. Instead, they may feel shortness of breath, nausea, or extreme tiredness.

Causes

Main causes

• Coronary artery disease – fat and cholesterol build up inside the arteries, making them narrow and stiff.
• A blood clot that partially blocks an artery, reducing blood flow to the heart.

Risk factors

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Smoking or using tobacco

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have new chest pain or any symptoms of angina, see a doctor within 24 hours or go to a hospital emergency department.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you already have a heart condition and notice your symptoms are changing or getting worse, make an appointment with your regular doctor.

Diagnosis

To diagnose angina, your doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and risk factors. They may also order one or more screening tests. Preparing properly for these tests helps get accurate results.

Tests that may be done

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) – A quick, painless test that records your heart's electrical activity.
• Exercise stress test – You walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike while your heart is monitored.
• Coronary CT angiogram – A special X-ray scan that shows the arteries of your heart.
• Coronary angiography – A test where a thin tube is placed in a blood vessel to see blockages.

What to expect at your appointment

For an exercise stress test, wear comfortable shoes and clothes. Avoid eating a large meal for 2–3 hours before. Do not use caffeine or smoke for at least 4 hours before the test. For a coronary CT angiogram, you may need to avoid caffeine for 24 hours before. Your doctor might give you medicine to slow your heart rate. For coronary angiography, you will need to stop eating and drinking a few hours before. You will get a local anaesthetic, and you may be awake but relaxed. Arrange for someone to drive you home after.

Treatment

Treatment for angina aims to reduce symptoms, prevent heart attacks, and slow the progression of heart disease. It includes lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes procedures.

Self-care at home

• Eat a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fat, salt, and added sugar.
• Get regular exercise – at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days, after checking with your doctor.
• Quit smoking if you smoke.
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
• Keep your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar under control.

Living with this condition

Living with angina means being aware of your triggers – like physical activity, cold weather, or stress – and taking steps to avoid or manage them. Always carry your prescribed medicine (such as a spray or tablet to take under your tongue) and know how to use it.

Lifestyle tips

• Follow a daily routine that includes rest breaks when needed.
• Plan activities and pace yourself to avoid overexertion.
• Keep a symptom diary to share with your doctor.
• Stay on top of your other health conditions, like diabetes or high blood pressure.

Diet and exercise

Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Reduce salt, fried foods, and sugary drinks. Exercise regularly – walking is a great start. Your doctor or a cardiac rehab team can help design a safe exercise plan.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent angina, but you can lower your risk by making heart-healthy choices: eat well, stay active, don't smoke, and keep your blood pressure and cholesterol in check.

Screening programmes

Screening for angina is not done routinely for everyone. Your doctor may recommend screening if you have risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, a strong family history, or symptoms. Talk to your doctor about whether you should be screened.

Complications

If left untreated

• Heart attack – if a blood vessel becomes fully blocked.
• Heart failure – when the heart can't pump enough blood to the body.
• Arrhythmia – an irregular heartbeat that can be dangerous.

Long-term outlook

With early diagnosis and proper treatment, most people with angina can live a long and active life. Following your treatment plan, making healthy changes, and staying in touch with your doctor are the best ways to keep your heart healthy.

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