Which cardiovascular condition is characterized by chest pain relieved by rest?

Stable angina is characterized by chest pain that typically occurs during exertion or stress and is relieved by rest or the use of nitroglycerin. This condition results from a temporary decrease in blood flow to the heart muscle, often due to coronary artery disease. The pain or discomfort experienced during stable angina is predictable and usually lasts only a few minutes. Patients often learn to recognize the triggers of their angina and understand that resting will alleviate their symptoms.

In contrast, unstable angina occurs unpredictably and can happen at rest, lasting longer, and may not respond as quickly to rest or medication. A myocardial infarction (heart attack) presents with more prolonged pain that does not resolve with rest and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath or sweating. Pericarditis typically involves sharp chest pain that may worsen with certain positions or breathing but is not specifically characterized by relief through rest in the same manner that stable angina is.