Final answer:
An S4 heart sound is the anticipated auscultation finding to support a diagnosis of angina pectoris. Angina is caused by insufficient blood flow and oxygen to the heart muscle, often resulting from coronary artery disease. It is critical to properly diagnose and manage angina to improve patient outcomes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The anticipated auscultation finding that would support a diagnosis of angina pectoris in a 62-year-old man with a significant smoking history and chest discomfort that radiates to the left shoulder and arm is most likely an S4 heart sound. Angina pectoris is chest pain or pressure that occurs when the heart muscle cells do not receive adequate blood flow and oxygen, often due to underlying coronary artery disease. An S4 heart sound is heard just before the S1 sound and is often called an "atrial gallop." This sound can be associated with conditions that increase resistance to ventricular filling following atrial contraction, such as in the case of ischemic heart disease that leads to angina.
It is important to differentiate angina from other causes of chest pain, given the variety of symptoms that can accompany this condition, including shortness of breath (dyspnea), sweating (diaphoresis), and nausea. Proper diagnosis and management of angina can slow the progression of atherosclerosis and relieve symptoms. When angina is stable, it typically presents with pain caused by exertion and is relieved by rest. When unstable, it may occur without exertion, signaling a greater risk and need for immediate medical attention.