Chronic Stable Angina Pectoris

What is Chronic Stable Angina Pectoris?

Chronic Stable Angina Pectoris (CSA) is a type of chest pain caused by decreased blood flow to the heart muscle. It occurs every time the heart needs more oxygen than it can get from the bloodstream. The pain usually occurs when a person is exerting themselves and can last for minutes. CSA is usually provoked by physical activity, such as walking, but can also occur when a person is at rest.

Symptoms of Chronic Stable Angina Pectoris

The most common symptom of CSA is chest pain which may also be felt in the neck, jaw, arms, and back. It can often be described as squeezing, burning, or tightness. Other symptoms may include:

Extreme fatigue
Shortness of breath
Dizziness
Rapid heartbeat
Nausea

Causes of Chronic Stable Angina Pectoris

CSA is caused by a decreased blood flow to the heart, usually due to an obstruction of an artery or heart vessels. The obstruction can be the result of narrowing caused by damage to the walls of the arteries, often the result of fatty deposits or cholesterol.

Diagnosis of Chronic Stable Angina Pectoris

Your doctor will generally diagnose CSA through history and physical examination, including electrocardiogram, chest X-ray, echocardiogram, blood tests, and stress testing. The doctor may also ask you to keep a diary to record your symptoms and activities.

Treatment of Chronic Stable Angina Pectoris

Treatment for CSA varies depending on the severity and cause. The main aim of treatment is to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment options for CSA include medications, lifestyle changes, and in severe cases, surgery.

Your doctor may prescribe medications to reduce the workload on your heart and improve blood flow, such as beta-blockers, nitrates, or calcium channel blockers.
Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet are essential for maintaining a healthy heart.
Surgery may be recommended in severe cases, such as angioplasty or bypass surgery.

Prevention of Chronic Stable Angina Pectoris

The best way to prevent CSA is to adopt healthy lifestyle habits. These include:

Quit smoking
Maintain a healthy weight
Eat a balanced diet
Exercise regularly
Reduce stress
Limit alcohol consumption

By adopting healthy lifestyle habits, you can reduce your risk of CSA and help keep your heart and arteries healthy.