Stable versus unstable angina

Stable angina commonly appears when the heart needs more oxygen during exertion or emotional stress and improves with rest or the treatment prescribed for episodes. Unstable angina can involve new discomfort, symptoms that happen with less activity, episodes that last longer, or pain while resting. Both can feel like pressure, heaviness, squeezing or chest tightness, and symptoms may spread to the arm, jaw, shoulder or back.

Follow the written plan for known stable angina, including how to use prescribed medicine and when to stop activity. Record the trigger, duration and associated symptoms. Keep regular reviews and take medicines as directed. Your clinician may assess blood pressure, cholesterol and heart rhythm, and may arrange an Electrocardiogram or other testing.

Call emergency services for chest discomfort at rest, a new or rapidly worsening pattern, severe or persistent symptoms, or symptoms with breathlessness, sweating, faintness or nausea. Do not drive yourself. Do not wait to see whether changing symptoms settle, because the difference between stable and unstable angina cannot be confirmed safely at home.

Ask how your usual pattern should be treated, which changes require emergency help, and whether your medicines need adjustment. Discuss how Hypertension, cholesterol and activity affect your risk.