Clinical Features

Angina pectoris is a cardinal symptom. Typically described as heaviness, pressure, squeezing,smothering, choking or burning and rarely as frank pain. Angina usually crescendo-decrescendo,typically lasting 2-3 mins and can radiate to the left shoulder and to both arms, especially to the ulnar surfaces of the forearm and hand. It can also arise in or radiate to the back, interscapular region, root of the neck, jaw, teeth, and epigastrium. Angina is rarely localized below the umbilicus or above the mandible, even though headache can be a manifestation.

Grading of Angina Pectoris According to CCS Classification

Physical Examination
 

This is often normal in patients with stable angina, but it may reveal evidence of atherosclerotic disease at other sites, such as an abdominal aortic aneurysm, carotid arterial bruits, and diminished arterial pulse in the lower extremities, or of risks factors for atherosclerosis, such as xanthelasma and xanthomas. Examination of the fundi may reveal increased light reflex and arteriovenous nicking as evidence of hypertension.