Stable Angina
Alternate Names : Angina Pectoris
What are the treatments for the condition?
Several types of medications are often used in combination to reduce the
symptoms of stable angina.
Beta-blockers, such as atenolol
or metoprolol are used to decrease
the work level of the heart, so that the same effort requires less oxygen.
Nitrates, such as nitroglycerin
or isosorbide mononitrate, help to
expand the small arteries and veins. This improves the blood flow to the heart.
Aspirin may prevent heart attacks.
Warfarin may prevent blood clots.
However, its use in treating stable angina remains controversial.
Calcium channel blockers, such as
diltiazem, nifedipine, or
verapamil, have been used for over 20
years to open the coronary arteries and lower high blood pressure. However, the findings of
2 recent studies have shown that people who take a calcium channel blocker
have a much higher incidence of complications than people taking other
medications for coronary artery disease and high blood pressure. One study,
for example, showed that the risk of heart
attack was 27% greater and the risk of congestive heart failure was 26% higher for those taking a calcium channel blocker. The American Heart
Association recommends discussing risks and benefits of the
medication with the healthcare provider.
Several procedures can be used to reduce the symptoms of stable angina,
including:
angioplasty, a procedure in which a tube with a balloon is inserted into
the blocked artery and inflated. This reopens the artery and allows blood to
flow.
placing a stent, a rigid tube similar to a tiny drinking straw, into the artery
at the reopened area to keep it from narrowing again
laser surgery, which uses light
waves to dissolve plaque
atherectomy, which involves removing plaque that causes narrowing of a
blood vessel
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Beta-blockers can cause:
a slow heartbeat
low blood pressure
depression
erectile dysfunction
unpleasant dreams
Calcium channel blockers can cause:
flushing
nausea
headache
swelling of the ankles
low blood pressure
weakness
a higher risk of heart attack and
congestive heart failure
Nitrates can cause headaches and low blood pressure. Aspirin and warfarin
increase the risk of bleeding. Surgery can result in infection, bleeding, and
allergic reaction to anesthesia.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Most individuals with stable angina are encouraged to begin a regular exercise
program. A person with stable angina should make every effort to reduce coronary risk factors. This may include
smoking cessation, control of other
diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure, and following a
healthy diet for heart disease prevention.
Medications may need to be adjusted to achieve the best response.
How is the condition monitored?
The person will have periodic examinations and tests by the healthcare provider
to discuss episodes of stable angina. Any new or worsening symptoms should be
reported to the healthcare provider.
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