Angina Pectoris

Angina pectoris, often called "angina," is chest pain or discomfort that happens when the heart isn’t getting enough oxygen-rich blood. This usually happens because of narrowed or blocked heart arteries, often due to build-up of fatty deposits (plaque).

People with angina often feel a squeezing, pressure, or tightness in the chest, which may spread to the arms, shoulders, neck, or jaw. It can be triggered by physical activity, stress, or even cold weather. Angina is a warning sign of heart disease and should be taken seriously. While it’s not a heart attack, it does increase the risk of one, so medical evaluation and treatment are essential.

As per Ayurveda, the interpretation of this types of angina pectoris can be considered to be the formation of excess ama, Vitiated Kapha which block the functioning of avata and consequently the circulation of blood to the heart due to blocks.

Common Causes of Angina

Angina is usually caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle due to:

• Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Narrowed or blocked arteries from plaque build-up.
• Blood Clots: Clots can partially block blood flow, reducing oxygen to the heart.
• Spasms in Coronary Arteries: Sudden tightening of arteries, which restricts blood flow
• Increased Heart Demand: Physical exertion, stress, cold weather, or heavy meals that increase the heart’s need for oxygen.

Symptoms of Angina

• Chest pain or pressure (feels like squeezing or heaviness)
• Pain that may radiate to the shoulders, arms, neck, or jaw
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue or weakness
• Sweating, nausea, or dizziness

Types of Angina

• Stable Angina: Triggered by physical activity or stress, and relieved by rest or medication.
• Unstable Angina: Unpredictable and may occur at rest; a medical emergency as it signals a higher risk of heart attack.

Ayurvedic perspective of Angina pectoris

From Ayurveda point of view, Hridshool means "heart pain," where "Hrid" refers to the heart, and "shool" means pain. It describes chest pain caused by blocked or restricted blood flow to the heart. This pain often comes from imbalances in the Vata and Kapha doshas, which lead to clogged channels (srotas) around the heart.

Hridshool is similar to angina pectoris in modern medicine, as both involve chest pain due to insufficient blood supply to the heart. In Ayurveda, Hridshool is considered a warning sign of heart issues, much like angina is in modern medicine, and both require careful attention and treatment.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Angina pectoris

Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to managing angina (Hridshool) by balancing the doshas, improving circulation, and reducing blockages.

Panchakarma (Detoxification Therapy):

Virechana (Purgation): Helps clear excess Ama (toxins), which can block heart channels.

Basti (Herbal Enemas): Balances Vata and helps improve circulation.

Hridaya Basti: A specialized treatment where warm medicated oils are applied to the chest to relieve pain and strengthen heart tissues.

Lifestyle and Mind-Body Techniques

Yoga: Gentle asanas, especially Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Lord of the Fishes), Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose), and Shavasana (Corpse Pose) can support heart health.

Pranayama: Breathing exercises like Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing).

Diet restrictions for Angina patients

For angina pectoris, it’s essential to avoid foods that can worsen heart health by increasing cholesterol, inflammation, or blood pressure. Here’s a list of foods to avoid:

High-Saturated Fat Foods:

• Red meat (like beef, lamb, and pork)
• Processed meats (sausage, bacon, hot dogs)
• Full-fat dairy products (whole milk, cheese, butter)

Trans Fats:

• Packaged snacks (chips, cookies, pastries)
• Fried foods
• Margarine and hydrogenated oils

Sugary Foods and Drinks:

• Sodas, energy drinks, and sweetened juices
• Candy, cakes, and desserts
• Refined carbohydrates (white bread, pasta, pastries)

High-Sodium Foods:

• Processed and canned foods (soups, sauces, frozen dinners)Herbs
• Salty snacks
• Pickles and condiments with high salt content

• Limit or avoid alcohol as it can raise blood pressure and increase strain on the heart.

• Avoid very spicy, oily, or fried foods, which can aggravate Kapha and Vata doshas, potentially worsening heart health.

Herbs supportive in Angina pectoris patients

Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna):

Strengthens the heart and improves blood flow. Often taken as powder or capsule. Or a milk decoction or ksheerpak can be made and taken.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera):

Reduces stress and helps balance Vata dosha.

Guggulu (Commiphora mukul):

Known for its lipid-lowering properties, which help reduce arterial plaque.

Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri):

Supports mental relaxation and reduces stress.

Garlic:

Acts as a natural blood thinner and improves circulation. Garlic can also be taken in ksheerpak (milk decoction) form.