What are the symptoms of cervicogenic angina?

What are the symptoms of cervicogenic angina is a common question we get as neck health experts.

Cervicogenic angina is an uncommon and sometimes overlooked cause of non-cardiac chest pain that mimics true angina pectoris but is caused by cervical spine disease.

Before cervical origin of angina is even considered, all patients should be evaluated to ensure cardiac conditions are ruled out. There is considerable overlap between cardiac cause of angina and cervical cause of angina.

Angina pain is frequently described as a pressure feeling of squeezing, heaviness, tightness, or pain in the chest.

Cervicogenic angina has been described as sharp, aching, or crushing.

We will outline common symptoms of cervicogenic angina below.

What are symptoms of cervicogenic angina?

1. Chest Pain: Typically described as a dull, aching, or pressure-like pain in the chest, often on one side. This pain may mimic the symptoms of cardiac angina.
2. Neck Pain and Stiffness: Discomfort or pain in the neck.
3. Radiating Pain: The chest pain may radiate from the neck, sometimes extending down the arm, jaw, or shoulder blade, similar to the pattern seen in cardiac-related chest pain.
4. Shoulder Pain: Pain may be felt in the shoulder area, especially on the affected side.
5. Headaches: Some individuals with cervicogenic angina may experience headaches, often at the base of the skull or in the temples.
6. Limited Neck Mobility: Reduced range of motion in the neck, with pain or discomfort during neck movements.
7. Numbness or Tingling: Some individuals may experience numbness, tingling, or abnormal sensations in the arm on the same side as the pain.
8. Worsening with Movement: Pain may worsen with certain neck movements or positions, such as tilting the head backward or protracting the head forward.
9. Pain Triggers: Activities or positions that exacerbate neck pain may also trigger or worsen chest discomfort.

It is crucial to differentiate cervicogenic angina from true cardiac angina, as both can present with chest pain.

If you experience chest pain or discomfort, it’s crucial to seek medical evaluation to rule out any cardiac-related issues. Our team will be happy to provide a thorough neck health examination once cardiac causes have been ruled out.

Conservative management, including specialized physical therapy care, should be considered in patients presenting with cervicogenic angina and dyspnea. We provide a comprehensive treatment approach through our Cervicogenic Angina Relief Program.

Don’t hesitate to contact us today so we can help you!