Angina is characterized by squeezing pain in the chest, sometimes felt in the left arm or jaw. Brought on by stressful activity or emotions, angina goes away with rest. It is more common in smokers, those with a history of high blood pressure or diabetes, and those with a family history of heart disease. The Angina Plan, a set of evidence-based guidelines for self-management of stable angina, was produced by a team from the University of York. Stable angina is predictable and controlled by medications, but many people have misconceptions about this condition. The plan is designed to reduce anxiety, depression, and the number of angina episodes.
Step 1
Get tested with the following tests: electrocardiography (ECG), exercise tolerance test (ETT), and myocardial profusion scintigraphy (MPS). Have the test results explained and reviewed to identify individual risk factors and realistic ways of reducing them. Keep a diary to increase awareness of personal patterns regarding symptoms and associated stressors.
Step 2
Take as-needed medication prior to exercise. Symptoms of angina occur because of reduced arterial blood flow to the heart. The problem is in the blood vessels, not in the heart itself. To increase blood flow and reduce pressure in arteries, patients should pace themselves during activity. Smaller blood vessels around the heart expand during moderate exercise, such as walking. Over time, these vessels can compensate for damaged ones and increase the flow of oxygenated blood to the heart. Patients who avoid exercise may be making their condition worse.
Step 3
Take a deep breath into the belly to a count of six. Hold to a count of six, then exhale through the nose to a count of twelve. Repeat six times. Diaphragm breathing and other relaxation techniques interrupt the cycle of tension, panic, and constriction. Calming the body and mind can dilate blood vessels and relieve pain. Many inexpensive and easy-to-follow guided relaxation materials are available for use by angina patients. Regular practice will increase confidence and competence.
Tips and Warnings
- Attend an angina support group to meet others with similar issues. Friends and family members may be well-meaning, but group members can relate, offer hope, and share their experiences with angina. Getting involved and giving back to the group can add meaning to life as well.
- Get detailed instructions when and where to access cardiologists and emergency care. Stable angina is most often treated by family doctors, however, advance arrangements provide safety and confidence that any changes to the condition will be evaluated and treated promptly, if necessary.
References
- The Angina Plan: Evidence
- "Living With Angina"; James Pantano , M.D., 2000
