Angina is a symptom of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), the most common type of heart disease. Angina happens when the plaque builds up in the coronary arteries. This build up of plaque is called atherosclerosis. As the plaque builds up, the coronary arteries become narrower and stiff. Blood flow to the heart is then reduced. This decreases the oxygen supply to the heart muscle.

Angina is chest pain or discomfort that occurs when your heart muscle does not get enough blood to it. It may feel like pressure or a squeezing pain in your chest. The pain may also occur in your shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back. It can even feel like indigestion.

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