What two characteristics describe stable angina?

Stable angina is characterized primarily by episodes of chest pain or discomfort that occur predictably during exertion or stress and is relieved by rest or nitroglycerin. This is due to the underlying coronary artery disease that restricts blood flow during increased physical activity. The pain typically arises when the heart muscle requires more oxygen than the narrowed arteries can deliver, such as during exercise or stressful situations. Once the person rests or uses medication like nitroglycerin, blood flow to the heart improves, and the pain subsides.

This presentation of pain is consistent with the typical pattern of stable angina, distinguishing it from unstable angina, which can occur at rest and is not predictable. The other choices describe conditions that do not align with the typical presentation of stable angina. For example, pain independent of exertion or variant pain occurring frequently overnight does not reflect the predictable nature of stable angina episodes. Similarly, short bursts of pain associated with eating may not be typical for stable angina and suggest other conditions that would need further evaluation.