Angina Management: What To Do When Chest Pain Strikes
If you experience angina, the first step is to understand the underlying cause, which often involves assessing the severity of coronary artery narrowing. Medical professionals typically recommend diagnostic tests such as coronary CTA (Computed Tomography Angiography) or coronary angiography to evaluate the condition of your heart arteries.
Severe Narrowing: Interventional Options
When significant blockage is detected, further treatment may be necessary. This can include either percutaneous coronary intervention (angioplasty and stenting) or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), depending on the complexity and location of the blockage. These procedures aim to restore proper blood flow to the heart muscle and reduce the risk of heart attack.
Mild Narrowing: Medication and Lifestyle Changes
In cases where the narrowing is less severe, treatment may focus on medications and lifestyle modifications. Commonly prescribed medications include beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and nitrates to help manage symptoms and reduce the heart's workload. It's essential to follow your doctor's recommendations closely and not to adjust your medication without professional guidance.
What To Do During an Angina Episode
When chest pain occurs, it's crucial to stop all physical activity and rest as soon as possible. Try to remain calm, limit talking, and practice slow, deep breathing. If you have been prescribed nitroglycerin, follow the instructions for its use during an attack. If symptoms persist for more than a few minutes, seek emergency medical help immediately.
Long-Term Heart Health Strategies
Regardless of whether surgery or medication is required, managing angina involves making long-term lifestyle changes. This includes adopting a heart-healthy diet low in salt and saturated fats, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in regular, moderate exercise as advised by your physician.
In addition, it's vital to control key health indicators such as blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels. Quitting smoking and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption are also crucial steps in reducing the risk of future cardiac events.
Medications That May Be Recommended
Unless contraindicated, most patients with angina are advised to take daily aspirin or another antiplatelet medication to prevent blood clots. Statins are also commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol and slow the progression of arterial plaque buildup. Always take these medications under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.