Angina Treatment Guidelines

Angina, a symptom of coronary heart disease, is chest pain, pressure or discomfort caused by the heart not receiving enough oxygen. Coronary artery disease is caused by atherosclerosis, which is the build-up of a fatty substance, known as plaque, in the arteries. The plaque can block the flow of blood and induce angina attacks, especially during physical exertion. Since angina can lead to a heart attack, it is important to seek treatment.

Medications

Several medications are commonly prescribed to treat angina. Nitrates, such as nitroglycerin, act to dilate or widen blood vessels, allowing more oxygen-rich blood to flow to the heart. Although nitrates are the most common prescribed medication, other medications such as beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, ACE inhibitors and anticoagulants can help relieve angina. These medications act to lower blood pressure, slow the heart rate and prevent blood clots from forming.

Angioplasty

When medications are not able to keep angina under control angioplasty, a medical procedure, may be necessary. Angioplasty involves the insertion of a small tube with a balloon on the end into a blood vessel. The tube is fed through until the blocked artery is reached, then the balloon is inflated to dilate the artery and restore blood flow.

Bypass Surgery

Heart bypass surgery is a major surgery, and the most radical treatment for angina. This surgery uses pieces of healthy arteries or veins as grafts to build a new pathway for the blood. The new path goes around, or bypasses, the blocked artery, thereby restoring blood flow to the heart and relieving the angina.

Lifestyle Changes

There are several lifestyle changes that you can make to help reduce the effects of heart disease and decrease the angina attacks. Diet plays an important role in the occurrence of heart disease so changing your diet to focus on fruits, vegetables and whole grains can reduce high blood pressure, lower cholesterol and help prevent further artery blockage. It is also important to quit smoking and lose weight if needed. Introduce exercise into your daily routine, but take it slow as overexertion can induce angina.

Cardiac Rehabilitation

Cardiac rehabilitation involves a team of doctors, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, dieticians and exercise specialists to provide education, counseling and training. The more you know and understand about your heart and your condition, the better you can cope with the stress. The plan will help you exercise safely, improve your stamina and strengthen your muscles.

References

• National Heart Lung and Blood Institute
• American Heart Association