Prinzmetal's angina: symptoms and next steps

The discomfort may be pressure, squeezing, heaviness, or tightness in the chest. It can spread to the neck, jaw, shoulder, arm, or back. Breathlessness, nausea, sweating, palpitations, or light-headedness may occur at the same time. Episodes may happen during sleep or at a similar time of day, then settle as the artery relaxes. Some people have no obvious trigger.

The spasm can temporarily reduce oxygen reaching the heart muscle. A chest symptom is not proof of this condition, because reflux, muscle pain, lung problems, and other heart conditions can feel similar. A clinician will consider the pattern and may arrange an electrocardiogram or other assessment.

Arrange a medical appointment for recurring episodes or chest discomfort that occurs at rest. Note what you were doing, the time it began, how it felt, how long it lasted, and whether breathing symptoms or spreading pain occurred. Take prescribed treatment as directed; medicines may be used to prevent spasm or relieve an episode. Your clinician may also review blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking, and other cardiovascular factors.

Do not alter heart treatment without advice. Mention all medicines, supplements, nicotine products, and recreational substances because some can affect blood vessels or interact with treatment.

Call emergency services if discomfort is severe, new, lasts longer than expected, returns repeatedly, or comes with fainting, major breathlessness, cold sweating, marked weakness, or pain in the jaw, back, shoulder, or arm. Rest while waiting and use a prescribed rescue medicine only according to your instructions. Do not travel alone or drive yourself.

Could my timing and symptoms indicate artery spasm? Which tests can capture or assess an episode? What should I take when symptoms begin? What possible triggers should I avoid? How should I monitor blood pressure and cholesterol? When should I seek emergency help?