Variant Angina Pectoris
Variant angina is not necessarily related to exercise or other stresses. It may come on while
asleep or sitting quietly or performing exercise that is usually well tolerated. This type of
chest pain, which is sometimes referred to as Prinzmetal's angina, has puzzled doctors for many
years. Recent studies, however, indicate that it is often caused by a spasm or constriction in
the coronary artery, which cuts off the blood flow and results in pain like that of classic angina.
Unstable Angina Pectoris
Some patients experience both classic effort-induced angina and variant angina, with attacks
coming on during periods of exertion as well as during restful times. Others experience an
acceleration of symptoms, with attacks occurring more ad more frequently after less and less
exertion. These syndromes are generally referred to as unstable angina, which usually requires
more intensive treatment because it is associated with a higher risk of heart attacks than classic,
stable angina. It should be noted, however, that heart attacks often occur in people who have never
experienced any chest pain, and, conversely, there are many people who live with angina for many
years without having a heart attack.
Treatments of Angina Pectoris
In most instances, the angina will subside with rest. If an attack occurs, stop whatever you are
doing and rest until it passes. Angina caused by coronary spasm may not respond as well to rest
as classic angina. Aside from rest, there are three major approaches to treating angina: life-style
changes, drugs and surgery.
Life-Style Changes
If you smoke, you should make every effort to stop. Smoking stimulates the heart to work harder;
it also causes other changes that many researchers think may be instrumental in triggering chest
pain and heart attacks. People who are overweight are usually advised to gradually lose weight by
eating less and exercising more. However, a person with heart disease should not embark on a weight
reduction or exercise program without close medical guidance. Avoiding stressful situations or
learning relaxation techniques are still other life-style modifications that may be recommended.
