What typically causes angina pectoris?

Angina pectoris usually occurs due to a lack of oxygen delivered to the cardiac muscle. This insufficient oxygen supply is often the result of narrowed or blocked coronary arteries, which can happen due to atherosclerosis or other cardiovascular diseases. During times of increased demand for oxygen, such as during physical exertion or stress, the heart may not receive enough oxygen, leading to the characteristic chest pain known as angina.

The feeling of chest pain or discomfort is a warning signal indicating that the heart is not functioning optimally, often prompting individuals to seek medical attention. While other conditions related to the heart, such as infections or abnormalities in heart rhythms and valves, can cause chest pain or discomfort, they are not the primary cause of angina pectoris. The defining aspect of angina is its relationship to oxygen scarcity within the heart tissue.