Symptom 6: Sweating
Continuing the array of symptoms associated with angina pectoris, we come to a surprisingly subtle yet concerning sign: excessive sweating or cold sweats. A situation where you suddenly find yourself drenched in sweat while at rest, or even asleep, could point to the underlying cardiac condition.
The human body employs sweating as a response to heat and stress. It’s a way to cool down when the body is overheated, or a fight-or-flight response when facing a stressful situation. In the case of angina pectoris, the stress results from inadequate blood flow to the heart, causing the body to respond with excessive sweating.
At times, the degree of sweating can be so high that it could rouse you from sleep, finding yourself and your bedding soaked in sweat. It’s not a symptom one would typically associate with a heart condition, making it all the more critical to recognize.
Now, it’s worth noting that sweating more than usual at rest, or during non-stressful situations, isn’t normal. It’s a sign that something in the body is off balance. If this sudden, unexplained sweating pairs with any other symptoms of angina pectoris, it’s time to consult a healthcare provider. (6)