What should you know about oxygen for angina?

Angina is chest discomfort caused by the heart muscle receiving less oxygen-rich blood than it needs, often during exertion. Breathing extra oxygen does not remove the underlying narrowing or reliably stop ordinary angina when blood oxygen is already adequate.

Assessment focuses on the pattern of pain, examination, an electrocardiogram when appropriate, and management of cardiovascular risks. Hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking can affect the overall plan. Treatment may include prescribed anti-anginal medicines and other risk-reducing medicines.

Stop exertion and sit or rest. Follow the action plan and use prescribed angina medicine exactly as directed. Do not borrow oxygen or change blood pressure medication or statin therapy without medical advice. Keep a record of what brought on the discomfort, how long it lasted, and whether it spread to the arm, jaw, back, or shoulder.

Call emergency services for new, severe, prolonged, or changing chest pressure, especially with sweating, nausea, faintness, or breathlessness. Seek urgent help if discomfort occurs at rest or does not improve according to your prescribed plan. Do not wait for oxygen to become available, and do not drive yourself if a heart attack is possible.

How can I distinguish my usual angina from an emergency? When would oxygen be appropriate for me? Which tests are needed? How should my blood pressure, cholesterol, and activity plan be managed?