Treatment for angina and CAD If your angina is caused by coronary artery disease, an important part of treatment will be to adopt a healthier lifestyle. This includes not smoking, reducing or eliminating saturated fats and sodium in your diet, controlling your weight, and getting regular exercise, as prescribed by your doctor. You will also need to lower your blood pressure, blood cholesterol, and blood sugar if these levels are high. Often, the pain of angina can be controlled by a medication called “nitroglycerin,” which temporarily widens the coronary artery, allowing blood to flow thorough to the heart muscle.

CAD may be treated with medications (including daily doses of aspirin) that thin the blood to prevent clotting. If one or two arteries are blocked, your doctor may prescribe a “balloon angioplasty,” a surgical procedure in which the artery is inflated, allowing blood to flow normally. In more serious cases, another procedure, coronary bypass surgery, may be done. This involves “bypassing” the blocked artery with grafts of arteries or veins taken from other parts of the body.

Depending on your age, the seriousness of your condition, and other health factors, your doctor will determine which type of treatment is best for you.

Risk factors for CAD Any of the following may put you at increased risk of CAD: an inherited tendency in your family; cigarette smoking; high blood pressure; diabetes; obesity; high blood levels of fat, such as cholesterol; and not enough physical exercise.

Things you can do to reduce your risk ● Eat a healthy diet low in cholesterol and fat and high in complex carbohydrates and fiber. ● Begin a regular exercise program under your doctor’s supervision. ● Carry your medication with you and take it as directed. (Nitroglycerin, for example, can be taken before strenuous activity to prevent angina.) ● Don’t smoke. ● Limit your consumption of caffeine and other stimulants. ● Have your blood pressure checked regularly. ● Learn techniques to help you reduce stress and anxiety in your life, such as deep breathing and relaxation exercises. ● Have regular checkups, so you and your doctor can keep a close watch on the health of your heart. ● If you are experiencing angina, get prompt medical attention.

Supported as an educational service by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. This information is not intended for use as medical advice. You should discuss this information with your doctor.

Page 2 of 2 :: First | Last :: Prev | 1 2 | Next