What is Angina?
Angina is a condition caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscles due to narrowing of the coronary arteries. The symptoms of angina include chest pain, pressure or discomfort, shortness of breath, and dizziness.
How Does Angina Develop?
Angina usually develops due to the accumulation of plaque in the walls of the arteries that carry blood to the heart muscles. This accumulation narrows the arteries, reducing the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart muscles.
What Causes Angina?
Angina is usually caused by an underlying heart condition, mostly coronary artery disease. Some other causes of angina include blood clots, anemia, and abnormal heart rhythms.
Is Angina Life-threatening?
Angina may not be life-threatening in and of itself, but it is a warning sign of an impending heart attack. Therefore, it is essential to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of angina.
Effects of Coffee on Angina
Many people love coffee, but there have always been mixed opinions about whether or not it is bad for angina. Here are some of the effects of coffee on angina:
Increases Blood Pressure
Coffee can increase blood pressure, which is already a problem for people with angina. Increased blood pressure can worsen the symptoms of angina, making it more difficult to manage.
Increases Heart Rate
Caffeine found in coffee also increases heart rate. This increased heart rate can lead to increased oxygen demand by the heart, which can aggravate the symptoms of angina.
Triggers Heart Palpitations
Coffee contains caffeine, which can induce heart palpitations, making the symptoms of angina worse.
Constricts Blood Vessels
Coffee can constrict blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the heart muscles. This constriction can make it difficult for the heart to receive enough oxygen, which is bad for angina.
Benefits of Coffee for Angina
Despite the negative effects of coffee on angina, some studies suggest that coffee has some benefits for people with angina:
Reduces the Risk of Heart Disease
Coffee contains antioxidants that are good for the heart. Some studies suggest that regular coffee consumption can reduce the risk of heart disease, which is good for people with angina.
May Help Improve Blood Flow
Coffee contains caffeine that can improve blood flow by dilating the blood vessels. This dilation can improve the supply of oxygen to the heart muscles, which may be beneficial for people with angina.
Helps Improve Mental Alertness
People with angina may suffer from depression and mental fatigue. Coffee contains caffeine that can help improve mental alertness, making it easier to carry out day-to-day activities.
Conclusion
Coffee can have both beneficial and negative effects on angina. However, it is advisable to avoid or limit coffee consumption if you have angina. It is also essential to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of angina to prevent a heart attack.
References
- Mayo Clinic Staff. (2019). Angina. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/angina/symptoms-causes/syc-20369373
- Higenbottam, T. W., & Simcock, D. E. (1984). Coffee and coronary heart disease. New England Journal of Medicine, 311(4), 280.
- Cox, S. R., Sallis, H. M., & Cox, R. H. (1975). Effect of caffeine on the coronary circulation. American Heart Journal, 90(2), 136-143.
- Center for Science in the Public Interest. (2021). Caffeine Chart. Retrieved from https://cspinet.org/eating-healthy/chemical-cuisine#caffeine
FAQs on Coffee and Angina
- Q. Can drinking coffee cause angina?
- Q. How much coffee is safe for people with angina?
- Q. Does decaf coffee have the same effects on angina as regular coffee?
- Q. Is coffee good for the heart?
A. Drinking coffee cannot cause angina, but it can worsen the symptoms of angina.
A. It is advisable to limit or avoid coffee if you have angina. However, if you cannot give up coffee entirely, it is safe to consume no more than two cups of coffee a day.
A. Decaf coffee does not contain caffeine, which is the primary substance responsible for the negative effects of coffee on angina. Therefore, decaf coffee is safer for people with angina.
A. Regular coffee consumption is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease in some studies. However, excessive coffee consumption can have adverse effects on the heart.