|
Angina can occur when the heart is not getting enough oxygen. This
is usually because the blood supply to the heart is blocked or because the heart is being
overworked and therefore needs more oxygen than usual. The heart can usually function
normally at rest but not when physically exerted.
What to look for
pain that is crushing,
constricting, strangling, suffocating, sharp, or burning… It is normally felt in the
chest but may also occur in other areas such as the jaw or abdomen. Location and specific
sensations vary from person to person but are usually consistent from one attack to the
next.
pain that occurs with
exertion or excitement and recedes with rest.
pain usually only lasts for
a few minutes
weakness, sweating,
shortness of breath, anxiety, palpitations, nausea, or light-headedness… Symptoms
that may or may not be associated with an angina attack.
patients who have had
angina attacks may go on to have full blown heart attacks and vice versa
Of the many types of angina,
stable, or classical, angina, triggered by exertion and receding with rest is the most
common.
If you have stable angina,
you should be able to predict what sort of activity will bring on an attack. Another type,
unstable angina, is a more acute condition; it occurs unpredictably, even during rest, and
should be interpreted as a warning sign of more serious heart trouble.
Alone, angina causes no
permanent damage because the heart is only temporarily deprived of oxygen. But if your
angina worsens, you should know that you are at a greater risk of heart attack. Be
especially concerned if you develop unstable angina, and consult a doctor.
CAUSES
The main underlying cause of
angina is coronary artery disease which describes the disease which the arteries become
blocked by fatty deposits and blood is prevented from flowing through them. Angina can
also result from other diseases that put exertion upon the heart unnecessarily, such as
anaemia, aortic valve disease (see heart disease), heart arrhythmias, and hyperthyroidism
(see thyroid problems).
Stable angina is sometimes
called "exertional" angina because it is triggered by activities that make the
heart beat rapidly such as physical activity, such as heavy lifting, sexual activity to
eating a large meal.
Other triggers are emotional
excitement cold weather, both of which stimulate the heart.
Certain risk factors for
heart disease and coronary artery disease make the development of angina more likely.
Traditional Treatment
Drugs may alleviate angina
symptoms, but fundamental changes in diet and lifestyle are an important part of any
angina treatment program. Before taking any drug, review its properties and your medical
history carefully with your Doctor and Pharmacist.
Many drugs should not be
mixed with other drugs or natural medicines, and you also need to be sure your Doctor
knows of any pre-existing medical conditions you may have.
If you have angina, your
doctor will undoubtedly mention the importance of an overall healthy lifestyle that
includes proper diet, exercise, weight management, and no smoking.
Most angina patients also
take prescribed medication. There are three main classes of angina drugs…
Physicians often use a
combination of these to treat angina.
If drug therapy does not work
Angioplasty or bypass surgery may be considered. Angioplasty, a catheter technique that
widens blocked arteries, has become a relatively routine procedure. Bypass surgery, which
diverts blood flow around clogged arteries, is reserved for very severe cases.
Alternative/Natural
Treatments
Always consult a doctor if
you think you may have angina. The alternative therapies below may help relieve symptoms
or prevent attacks, but they should be considered as complements to, rather than
substitutes for, conventional medical care.
Herbal Therapies
-
Hawthorn is an excellent long-term
tonic for angina because it simultaneously dilates coronary arteries and calms the heart.
Raw
garlic is said to help control blood cholesterol
levels. Tea (made from lime flowers - linden, hawthorn and
nettle)
may reduce blood pressure and make the blood vessels stronger. Chamomile tea is also helpful.
Homoeopathy
- For immediate relief during an acute attack, Cactus grandiflorus is
recommended. Among the long-term remedies that might be prescribed to you are
Nux vomica and
Arsenicum album.
Lifestyle -
Stay
clear of carbon monoxide and cigarette smoke, avoid alcohol or drink only sparingly while
on angina medication because of possible adverse reactions. Very gentle aerobic exercise
may beneficial for angina patients. Build stamina gradually, and exercise inside during
cold weather. Be sure to consult your doctor before embarking on an exercise program.
Mind/Body
Medicine - If you are
stressed or easily upset find
ways to relax your mind and body. You may find relief through yoga, or meditation.
Dietary Considerations
Consider a low fat diet
to decrease the fatty deposits around your arteries. Eat less saturated fats and
cholesterol.
You may wish to take a
program of vitamins such as the
B complex,
E and Pantothenic Acid.
Personal Care at
Home
Use more pillows to raise
your head up while you sleep to lessen the likelihood of a night attack
An aspirin a day, with your
doctor's permission, may reduce the risk of heart attack and unstable angina.
Spend at least an hour
digesting heavy meals… exertion after eating is known to cause attacks.
Be careful when starting an
exercise regime as this is known to create angina attacks.
Stop smoking, as it greatly
aggravates angina.
Do not take birth-control
pills if you have angina. Estrogens are associated with increased risk of blood clots.
When to seek further
professional advice
if an attack lasts more
than 10 minutes; this may be a heart attack. Call
000 or your emergency number now.
you think this may be your
first angina attack; you need to find out for sure.
attacks have become more
intense, frequent, prolonged, and unpredictable; these are signs of unstable angina.
you are taking your
prescribed medication and notice side-affects.
|
