Which symptom is most commonly associated with stable angina?

Chest pain during exertion is the hallmark symptom of stable angina. This type of angina is typically triggered by physical activity, emotional stress, or other factors that increase the heart's oxygen demand. The pain usually occurs in the chest, but it can also radiate to the arms, neck, jaw, or back. Importantly, stable angina is characterized by its predictable nature; patients can often anticipate when an episode will occur based on their activities.

In contrast, severe shortness of breath is not a classic symptom of stable angina and may indicate other cardiac or respiratory issues. Heart palpitations at rest can be a symptom of various conditions, including arrhythmias, but are not specific to stable angina. Swelling in the lower extremities typically suggests heart failure or fluid overload conditions and does not relate directly to the angina experience.