Angina Pectoris or Chest pain related to heart, in Woodbridge & Stafford, VA, is a type of chest pain caused by narrowing in one of the arteries that provide blood flow to the heart. The pain can vary in intensity. It is essential to seek medical attention with and be seen by a cardiologist, like any of the experts at NOVA Cardiovascular Care. Depending on the cause, treatment may include medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery.
Unstable Coronary Thrombosis
Unstable chest pain is a more severe form of the disease. In a precarious state, a blood clot forms in the artery and prevents blood from flowing to the heart. It is a powerful warning sign of an impending heart attack. You should seek emergency medical attention if you experience sudden chest pain lasting more than a few minutes.
This type of pain could be cardiac infarction, Angina, aneurysm, dissection or other medical emergencies related or unrelated to the heart's arteries. The condition can potentially increase the risk of heart attack, resulting in death.
Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease is caused by fatty buildup and plaque in the arteries. As plaque builds up, the arteries become less flexible and narrow. More plaque puts you at a greater risk of a heart attack. When you're under physical exertion, your heart works harder to pump blood, which can also result in coronary thrombosis.
During an episode, you can also experience shortness of breath and a sensation of pressure in your chest. If you experience these angina symptoms in Woodbridge & Stafford, VA, please call NOVA Cardiovascular Care or if persistent and significant symptoms be seen immediately by a physician.
Stable Coronary Thrombosis
Stable coronary thrombosis is the most common form. This type of cardiac infarction typically disappears after a few minutes of rest or if you take medicine. To treat stable cardiac infarction, your doctor may prescribe a nitroglycerin pill, which relaxes the arteries and improves the blood flow.
In addition, some people have been prescribed a beta blocker, which blocks a hormone that increases heart rate.
Getting Immediate Treatment
People with stable coronary stenosis or Angina need treatment to prevent a heart attack and symptoms. For instance, medications like nitroglycerin and ranolazine may be prescribed. These medications can help stop heart problems before they start.
You should also consult your doctor if you have any other symptoms. In addition, you can have a cardiac enzyme blood test, which will check the levels of heart enzymes, letting your doctor know if you are at risk for a heart attack.
Your doctor also wants to know about other coronary artery disease risk factors and can assess your risk of having a heart attack in near future and unstable condition.
Do you live in the Woodbridge & Stafford, VA, area and feel your symptoms may be due to angina and might affect your heart? Call NOVA Cardiovascular Care at (703) 492-6822 in Woodbridge, VA, or (540) 628-2173 in Stafford, VA, to schedule your appointment or to get advise.