Unstable angina is chest pain that occurs at rest or with less and less exertion; the pain may become severe and last longer and it may not respond to nitroglycerin or rest.
Unstable angina is a change from stable angina—a pattern of predictable chest pain that is relieved by rest. Unstable angina is a warning sign that blood flow to the heart has become more impaired and that a heart attack may soon occur.
Unstable angina requires immediate medical evaluation.
| Author: | Jeannette Curtis |
| Medical Review: | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated: May 25, 2007 | |
© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise discalims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use.