Angina
Also known as: Angina Pectoris, Cardiac Angina, Ischemic Chest Pain, or Cardiogenic Pain
Angina, also known as angina pectoris, is a type of chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle doesn't receive enough oxygen-rich blood. It is usually a symptom of an underlying heart condition, such as coronary artery disease (CAD).
What are the symptoms of Angina?
Chest pain or discomfort, often described as pressure, tightness, squeezing, or burning.
Pain or discomfort that may spread to the neck, jaw, shoulders, arms (usually the left arm), back, or abdomen.
Shortness of breath.
Nausea.
Fatigue.
Sweating.
How is Angina diagnosed?
Angina is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, which may include:
Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG):
This test records the electrical activity of the heart and can detect abnormalities suggestive of angina.
Stress Test:
A stress test involves monitoring the heart's activity while the patient exercises or receives medication that mimics the effects of exercise. It helps evaluate how well the heart functions during physical activity.
Coronary Angiography:
This invasive procedure involves injecting contrast dye into the coronary arteries and taking X-ray images to visualise any blockages or narrowing.
Blood Tests:
Blood tests may be performed to check for elevated levels of certain enzymes that indicate heart muscle damage.
How is Angina treated?
Treatment for angina aims to relieve symptoms, prevent complications, and reduce the risk of heart attacks.
Common treatment options include:
Lifestyle changes:
Such as adopting a heart-healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing stress.
Medications:
Including nitroglycerin to relieve chest pain, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and anti-platelet medications to reduce the workload on the heart and prevent blood clots.
Angioplasty and Stenting:
In cases of severe blockages in the coronary arteries, a procedure called angioplasty may be performed to open the blocked artery and place a stent to keep it open.
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG):
This surgical procedure may be recommended for patients with severe coronary artery disease who are not candidates for angioplasty or stenting. It involves rerouting blood flow around blocked or narrowed arteries using grafts from other blood vessels.
It's essential for individuals experiencing symptoms of angina to seek medical attention promptly for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Keeping your heart healthy is our utmost priority.
With our commitment to prompt care, we aim to see you within just two working days*.
*subject to cardiologist availability