Recognizing and Managing the Angina Pectoris

Substernal chest pain, pressure, or discomfort lasting longer than 30 to 60 seconds is a sign of angina pectoris. It usually gets better with rest and gets worse with physical activity and emotional stress. Angina is now a predictor of major adverse cardiac events, Additionally, angina should be treated because it is a serious morbidity that lowers quality of life. Pharmacologic treatments for angina in the United States include beta-blockers, nitrates, and calcium channel blockers. More sophisticated and efficient treatments are required because a considerable percentage of patients still experience recurrent or ongoing angina after revascularization, despite the fact that it has been demonstrated to alleviate angina and is advised for certain high-risk individuals. Improved external counter pulsation and stem cell therapy are two options for treating refractory angina that is not responsive to standard pharmaceutical treatments or revascularization techniques. Angina remains a major contributor to morbidity. In addition to improving survival and addressing the risk factors for atherosclerotic disease, therapy should focus on preventing or lessening angina and enhancing patient’s capacity for physical activity.