Angina typically feels like sudden pain or discomfort in the chest, often described as tightness, squeezing, pressure, heaviness, or a dull ache. This pain usually occurs behind the breastbone but can also spread to other areas such as the neck, shoulders, jaw, arms, back, or stomach. Some people describe it as a heavy weight lying on the chest or a crushing sensation
. Along with the chest pain, angina can cause other symptoms like feeling sick, breathless, dizzy, sweaty, weak, or extremely tired. Some individuals may also experience indigestion-like feelings or nausea
. The pain or discomfort is often triggered by physical activity, emotional stress, cold weather, or eating a large meal, and it usually lasts less than 10 minutes. It typically improves with rest or by taking prescribed medication such as nitroglycerin. However, if the pain is severe, lasts longer, or occurs at rest, it may indicate unstable angina or a heart attack, requiring immediate medical attention
. In summary, angina feels like a pressing, squeezing, or tight pain in the chest that can radiate to other parts of the upper body, often accompanied by symptoms like breathlessness and sweating, and is usually triggered by exertion or stress but relieved by rest
