Antianginal therapy describes all medical measures aimed at relieving the symptoms of angina pectoris and improving blood flow to the heart.
What is behind the term?
The expression comes from cardiology and is derived from "angina pectoris", a typical chest pain caused by a temporary reduction in blood supply to the heart muscle. "Antianginal" therefore means "directed against angina pectoris". The therapy includes various medicines and sometimes other procedures to improve the oxygen supply to the heart and reduce the risk of serious complications.
When is this kind of treatment used?
Antianginal therapy is needed above all when symptoms such as tightness or pain in the chest occur, pointing to a problem with blood flow to the heart. Such symptoms can occur, for example, in what is known as stable or unstable angina pectoris. The aim is to relieve symptoms, improve quality of life, and prevent dangerous consequences such as a heart attack.
How does the treatment work exactly?
At the centre of treatment are medicines that work in different ways. Beta-blockers are used particularly often. They reduce the heart's need for oxygen by lowering the pulse and blood pressure. Another classic medicine is nitrates, which widen the coronary arteries and so improve blood flow. Calcium channel blockers are also frequently prescribed; they relax the blood vessel muscles and also help to increase blood flow to the heart.
Sometimes additional medicines are used that make the blood "thinner" and so reduce the risk of blood clots. Strictly speaking, these do not belong to antianginal therapy in the narrow sense, but rather serve to prevent heart attacks.
Is it dangerous and how is the diagnosis made?
Many people are alarmed when they first hear about angina pectoris or experience the related symptoms. The good news is that with targeted treatment, the symptoms can usually be well controlled and serious complications prevented. The diagnosis is generally made through a detailed conversation, a physical examination, and often an ECG as well. If needed, further tests follow, such as a stress test or an imaging of the coronary arteries.
What can you do yourself to relieve the symptoms?
Alongside medical treatment, your own lifestyle plays an important role. People who exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, and avoid smoking can take the strain off the heart and improve blood flow. Managing stress also helps to reduce symptoms. It is a good idea to work together with a doctor to draw up a personal plan that takes individual risk factors into account.
What to do in the event of acute symptoms?
If sudden severe chest pain or a strong feeling of tightness occurs, no time should be lost. Particularly if the symptoms occur at rest or last longer than a few minutes, this can be a warning sign of a serious problem with blood flow. In such cases, the rule is: seek medical help immediately. With unstable angina pectoris in particular, there is an increased risk of a heart attack. Anyone who has already been prescribed medicines such as nitro spray should use them as directed by their doctor.
What happens if the symptoms remain despite therapy?
In some cases, medicines alone are not enough. It may then be necessary to improve blood flow to the heart through a small procedure, such as the insertion of a stent. This decision is made by the treating cardiologist after a thorough examination.
In summary
Antianginal therapy helps to relieve the symptoms of angina pectoris and protect the heart. It usually consists of a combination of different medicines that are tailored to the individual. A healthy lifestyle supports the effect of the medicines and helps to reduce the risk of complications. Anyone who knows their own symptoms and responds correctly in an emergency can do a great deal for their own heart.
