Treatment of Vasospastic Angina

A temporary spasm in a coronary artery can reduce blood flow to the heart muscle. Episodes may cause pressure, pain, or chest tightness at rest, often at night or in the early morning, though patterns differ. An Electrocardiogram and other tests help distinguish coronary spasm from a heart attack and other causes of chest symptoms.

The clinician will review smoking, stimulant or recreational drug exposure, cold exposure, stress, medicines, blood pressure, and other cardiovascular conditions. Hypertension and Angina may need separate assessment and treatment.

Take prescribed anti-anginal medicine on the schedule provided, even when episodes have settled. Calcium-channel blockers or nitrates are commonly considered by cardiologists; the choice depends on your health, blood pressure, heart rhythm, and other medicines. Never stop or change treatment without advice.

Avoid smoking and ask before using medicines or supplements that can narrow blood vessels. Keep follow-up appointments, record the timing and duration of attacks, and note activity, temperature, emotional stress, and any missed doses. Blood Pressure Medication or Statin Therapy may be recommended when another cardiovascular risk also needs management.

Call emergency services for new, severe, prolonged, or worsening chest pain, pain spreading to the arm, jaw, back, or shoulder, breathlessness, sweating, fainting, nausea, or a sense that something is seriously wrong. Do not drive yourself. A suspected heart attack needs emergency assessment even if symptoms resemble a previous spasm.

Use your prescribed rescue medicine exactly as instructed while waiting for help. If attacks become more frequent, occur with less warning, or start after a medicine change, contact your cardiology team promptly.

How was coronary spasm confirmed, and do I need an Electrocardiogram during symptoms? Which medicine is my daily prevention and which is for an attack? What triggers should I avoid? How should I manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and missed doses?