What is the main cause of angina pectoris?

The main cause of angina pectoris is reduced blood supply to the heart. This condition occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood, usually due to narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries. This lack of adequate blood flow can result from atherosclerosis, where plaques build up in the arteries, or from other conditions that affect blood circulation.

When the heart's demand for oxygen increases during activities such as exercise or stress, the insufficient blood supply can lead to chest pain or discomfort, which is characterized as angina. Understanding that angina is primarily linked to insufficient blood supply helps in recognizing the importance of cardiovascular health and the need for identifying risk factors that might contribute to coronary artery disease.