How is stable angina best characterized?

Stable angina is best characterized by chest pain that is relieved by rest. This type of angina typically occurs when the heart muscle does not get enough blood flow, often triggered by physical exertion or emotional stress. However, the distinguishing feature of stable angina is that the pain is usually predictable in terms of triggers (like exercise or stress) and resolves upon resting or by using medications such as nitroglycerin.

The pathophysiology involves a fixed obstruction (such as atherosclerosis) that narrows the coronary arteries, leading to ischemia during exertion. With rest, the demand for oxygen decreases, and the heart's blood supply can meet its needs, alleviating the pain.

Other options describe symptoms that don’t align with the characteristics of stable angina. Chest pain occurring at rest is more indicative of unstable angina. Unpredictable chest pain suggests variant angina, where vasospasm rather than fixed obstruction may be the underlying issue. Pain that worsens with stress isn't specific as stress may also trigger stable angina; it lacks the defining quality of relief upon rest. Hence, the defining aspect of stable angina is its predictable nature and the relief of symptoms upon cessation of the triggering activity.