Angina pectoris, or simply “angina”, is caused by a reduced supply of oxygen to the muscle of the heart. High blood pressure contributes to the development of angina by affecting the vascular system and/or the muscular wall of the left ventricle.

An increased number of muscle cells that are larger than normal leads to an increased requirement for oxygen. However, blood supply to the heart may be decreased. The thickened wall of the left ventricle may cause the heart walls to compress the very arteries that are bringing oxygenated blood to it. The end result is a decreased ability to provide oxygenated blood to tissue that has an increased oxygen demand. This may cause chest pains, or angina.