Unstable Angina Diagnosis at 63: Effective Recovery Through Intervention and Medication
Heart-related chest pain following physical activity can be a sign of a serious condition. This case follows a 63-year-old man who experienced recurring chest discomfort during exercise. His symptoms, including palpitations, fatigue, and shortness of breath, would subside after a few minutes of rest but would return upon resuming activity. After undergoing a series of medical evaluations, he was diagnosed with unstable angina, a high-risk form of coronary artery disease. With timely intervention and comprehensive medication therapy, he made a full recovery and resumed his normal lifestyle without restrictions.
Key Information
Patient: Male, 63 years oldDiagnosis: Unstable anginaHospital: The 988 Hospital of the PLA Joint Logistics Support ForceVisit Date: February 2022Treatment: Minimally invasive coronary stent implantation combined with medication (Rosuvastatin calcium tablets, enteric-coated aspirin, ticagrelor tablets, and nicorandil tablets)Recovery Period: 5-day hospitalization with a follow-up checkup one month post-surgeryOutcome: Complete resolution of symptoms and return to unrestricted physical activity
Initial Consultation and Symptoms
The patient had been experiencing recurring chest pain during physical exertion for over six months. Accompanied by palpitations, fatigue, and tightness in the chest, the discomfort would typically subside after about five to six minutes of rest. He had previously taken sublingual nitroglycerin and traditional herbal medications like compound salvia miltiorrhiza tablets, but symptoms persisted. A resting ECG at a local clinic showed signs of myocardial ischemia, prompting a referral to a specialist. After a thorough clinical assessment and further diagnostic testing, unstable angina was suspected and confirmed.
Diagnostic and Interventional Process
Upon admission, the patient underwent a battery of tests including chest X-ray, cardiac enzyme analysis, blood glucose and lipid profiling, and echocardiography. No contraindications were found, and the medical team proceeded with coronary angiography. This minimally invasive procedure revealed a critical stenosis in the left anterior descending artery, indicating a high risk of acute myocardial infarction. After discussing the risks and benefits with the patient's family, a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was performed, and a single stent was successfully implanted. Blood flow was restored immediately, and the patient reported a significant improvement in symptoms.
Post-Procedure Recovery and Follow-Up
The patient was discharged two days after the procedure, having spent five days in the hospital. He was prescribed a long-term medication regimen including antiplatelet therapy, statins, and vasodilators to support cardiovascular health. One month later, during a follow-up visit, the patient reported no recurrence of chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue. He was able to resume his normal physical activities without discomfort. Follow-up tests, including ECG, cardiac enzymes, and echocardiography, showed no abnormalities, confirming a successful recovery without complications.
Important Recommendations for Long-Term Health
While the patient's condition improved significantly, managing coronary artery disease is a lifelong process. Key lifestyle and medical recommendations include:
- Medication Adherence: Continue prescribed medications without interruption to prevent plaque buildup and reduce clotting risk.
- Control of Risk Factors: Maintain optimal blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Regular Medical Checkups: Schedule routine visits with a cardiologist to monitor heart health and adjust treatment as needed.
Clinical Insight and Final Thoughts
Unstable angina is often a precursor to more severe cardiac events and should not be ignored. It typically occurs due to atherosclerotic plaque buildup in the coronary arteries, which restricts blood flow to the heart muscle. This patient's symptoms—especially the pattern of exertional chest pain relieved by rest—are classic indicators of the condition. Prompt diagnosis through coronary angiography and timely stent placement can prevent progression to heart attack. Early intervention, combined with lifestyle modifications and medication, is crucial for long-term heart health and quality of life.