How is angina treated?

Angina happens when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen during exertion or stress. A clinician may prescribe medicine to relax blood vessels, slow the heart, or prevent clots. Treatment may also address high blood pressure and high cholesterol; blood pressure medication and statin therapy may be part of that plan. Tests help determine whether symptoms are stable and whether a cardiology assessment or artery-opening procedure is needed.

Use prescribed medicines exactly as directed and carry any fast-acting medicine recommended for episodes. Notice what brings on chest pain or tightness, how long it lasts, and whether rest relieves it. Pace activity, avoid smoking, and follow advice about food, movement, weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Do not stop heart medicines suddenly without clinical advice. Keep reviews so the plan can change if symptoms become more frequent or occur with less activity.

Call emergency services for new, severe, prolonged, or worsening chest pain or tightness, especially with shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, faintness, or pain spreading to the arm, jaw, back, or shoulder. Seek urgent help if an episode does not settle with the action plan provided to you. Do not drive yourself during suspected heart-related symptoms.

Ask whether your symptoms fit stable angina, which medicines you should use during an episode, what activity is suitable, and which warning signs mean emergency care. Ask how blood pressure and cholesterol targets will be monitored and whether further heart testing is needed.