38 Irrawaddy Road #08-51, Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, Singapore 329563
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38 Irrawaddy Road #08-51, Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, Singapore 329563
If you are experiencing heart or chest pain, you may be concerned about what is causing it and how to find relief. One common cause is stable angina, a condition where narrowed coronary arteries reduce blood flow to the heart. While this condition may not be as urgent as a heart attack, it is important to address it early to manage your symptoms and improve your heart health.
In this article, we will help you understand the causes behind stable angina, show you how to recognise the symptoms, and outline the treatment options available.
The primary cause of stable angina is coronary artery disease (CAD), a condition where the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked. This reduction in blood flow restricts the oxygen supply to the heart muscle, resulting in chest and heart pain or discomfort.
Some risk factors for CAD, and by extension, stable angina, include:
To prevent stable angina from developing or worsening, it is important to recognise these risk factors and make actionable changes to reduce them.
The most common symptom of stable angina is heart or chest pain. The sensation is often described as pressure, squeezing, or heaviness, and typically occurs during physical activity, stress, or even after eating. In some cases, the pain may radiate beyond the chest, spreading to areas such as the shoulders, neck, jaw, or arms.
However, chest and heart pain due to stable angina usually eases with rest or medication. This makes it different from more serious conditions, such as unstable angina or a heart attack, where the pain is more persistent and may not go away easily.
If you experience chest pain that lasts longer than usual or does not go away with rest, it could be a sign of something more serious. It is advisable to seek medical advice as soon as you can.
To manage stable angina effectively, patients will need a combination of medical treatment and lifestyle changes.
In mild to moderate cases, a qualified cardiologist may prescribe medication to address and manage the condition. This could include:
Improves blood flow to the heart by relaxing and widening blood vessels. This type of medication is available as a pill, spray, or patch.
They help lower heart rate and blood pressure, reducing the heart’s workload.
Relaxes blood vessels to increase blood supply to the heart, reduce chest pain, and lower blood pressure.
Do note that these medications may cause side effects like headaches, dizziness, or fatigue. They must be prescribed by a healthcare professional who will tailor the treatment to your specific health needs and risk factors.
For patients with significant coronary artery blockages, procedures like angioplasty (heart stenting treatment) may be necessary to restore blood flow to the heart. These procedures are minimally invasive, done under local anaesthesia and typically performed through a small incision in the skin. They are used to alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
Beyond medical interventions, adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle is crucial in managing stable angina and preventing its progression. This includes maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting processed foods, unhealthy fats, and sodium. Regular exercise, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, for at least 150 to 300 minutes a week can strengthen the heart and improve circulation. Smokers should also consider quitting the habit to reduce inflammation and improve blood vessel health.
Adults, particularly men over 40 and women over 50, should consider including heart screenings in their regular check-ups. These screenings are vital for monitoring artery health and enable early detection, allowing for timely intervention before conditions worsen.
Stable angina, while common, does not have to limit your life. By recognising the symptoms of stable angina early and addressing the underlying causes, you can effectively manage the condition. With the right medical treatment and lifestyle changes, it is possible to minimise symptoms and maintain your quality of life.
If you have been experiencing heart or chest pain, it is important to seek advice from a trusted cardiologist. Dr. Leslie Tay, an Interventional Cardiologist, can assess your symptoms and develop a personalised treatment plan to help you manage your heart health effectively. Contact us to make your first appointment today.
