Which description best characterizes typical angina chest pain?

• A. Sharp stabbing chest pain
• B. Dull abdominal pain
• C. Chest discomfort described as pressure or squeezing
• D. Shortness of breath with leg swelling

Answer: (C)

The key feature is chest discomfort from myocardial ischemia described as pressure, squeezing, or heaviness. This tight, draped-over-the-chest sensation is typically located behind the sternum, may radiate to the left arm, shoulder, jaw, or back, and is provoked by exertion or emotional stress and relieved by rest or nitroglycerin. The duration is usually a few minutes. Sharp stabbing chest pain points toward pleuritic or musculoskeletal causes, dull abdominal pain is not chest ischemia, and shortness of breath with leg swelling suggests heart failure or edema rather than classic angina pain.