What symptom is typically associated with angina?

Chest pain is indeed the hallmark symptom of angina, which can often present as a feeling of pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the chest. This discomfort may also radiate to the shoulders, neck, arms, back, teeth, or jaw, making it distinct from other potential symptoms associated with different health conditions. Understanding that angina arises due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle helps clarify why chest pain is central to its diagnosis. It serves as a signal that the heart is not receiving sufficient oxygen, particularly during periods of physical exertion or emotional stress.

Shortness of breath can sometimes accompany angina, but it is not as definitive as chest pain when identifying the condition. Weakness might occur in various health scenarios, including fatigue or heart issues, but it is not specific enough to angina itself. Severe headache is generally unrelated to angina and may suggest other medical issues, such as migraines or elevated blood pressure. Thus, the presence of chest pain is what most accurately captures the essence of angina symptoms.