Angina Pectoris
A severe chest pain due to the temporary inability of coronary arteries to meet the oxygen demands of the myocardium, usually caused by a thrombus.
Types:
- Atherosclerosis - commonly called “hardening of the arteries”, it is a fatty plaque deposits in the intima of the arteries.
- Arteriosclerosis - calcium deposits in the media of the artery.
Coronary Artery Disease Risk Factors:
- Modifiable
- Hypertension
- Hyperlipidemia
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Stress
- Sedentary life-style
- Non-Modifiable
- Age
- Sex - male are more prone
- family history
Signs and Symptoms:
- Pain tends to radiate into neck, shoulder and down inner aspect of left arm. (short duration, usually relieved by rest and nitroglycerin)
Management:
- Have patient rest in a very comfortable position.
- Give antianginal drugs as ordered.
- Teach client to identify own pain pattern and to recognize change of pain.
