Narrowing of the arteries that feed the heart may cause chest pain, shortness of breath and an increased risk of heart attack.
When to seek emergency care
If any of the following signs occur, call +994 50 808 30 03 immediately — do not wait for a routine appointment:
- Chest pain lasting more than 20 minutes
- Pain spreading to the left arm, jaw, back or neck
- Cold sweat, nausea or marked weakness
- Shortness of breath or fainting
What is it?
The buildup of atherosclerotic plaques in the coronary arteries reduces blood flow. When the heart requires more oxygen, the narrowing may cause symptoms. Timely assessment is essential to reduce the risk of heart attack and choose the appropriate treatment approach.
Symptoms
- Pressure, burning or heaviness in the chest
- Shortness of breath during activity
- Unusual fatigue
- Pain spreading to the left arm, jaw or back
- Atypical symptoms in older adults and people with diabetes
Causes & risk factors
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Family history of heart disease
- Excess weight and inactivity
Diagnosis
Diagnosis should not rely on one test alone. Symptoms, risk factors, physical examination and investigation results are interpreted together.
- ECG
- Troponin and blood tests
- Echocardiography
- Stress testing or stress imaging
- Coronary CT angiography
- Coronary angiography
Treatment approaches
Treatment is individualized according to disease severity, the patient’s overall condition, comorbidities and procedural risk.
- Lifestyle modification
- Antiplatelet and cholesterol-lowering medication
- Blood pressure and diabetes control
- Coronary angioplasty and stenting
- Surgical bypass discussion in selected cases
How we help
The patient is evaluated by a cardiologist and the interventional cardiology team. Symptoms, risk factors, ECG, echocardiography and blood results are reviewed together. If indicated, coronary angiography is performed and the treatment plan may include medication, stenting or surgical referral.
When a procedure may be needed
Invasive assessment may be needed when symptoms persist despite medication, non-invasive testing suggests high risk, acute coronary syndrome is suspected, or significant narrowing is likely.
Patient checklist
- Record when chest pain starts and how long it lasts
- Bring a list of all current medications
- Bring previous ECG, echo, CT and blood test results
- Tell the team about any contrast allergy
FAQ
Does angiography always mean a stent?
No. Angiography is diagnostic. A stent is considered only when the degree of narrowing and clinical risk support it.
Should I see a doctor if chest pain has passed?
Yes, especially if it recurs or appears with physical activity.
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