Control Angina Pain with Medications

Angina is a heart-related condition caused by reduced flow of oxygenated blood to the heart itself. Stable angina, the most common type, is brought on by the increased oxygen demand on the heart caused by exertion, such as climbing a flight of stairs, and typically lasts only a few minutes. Unstable angina is a potential sign of a heart attack, which may occur unexpectedly while a person is at rest. Medical attention should be sought immediately when this occurs. Sensations of pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of the chest are descriptive of the symptoms and discomfort associated with the condition. Other symptoms include dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath.

Mild angina pain may be controlled with lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, starting an exercise plan, and losing excess weight. Several medications are recommended for the management of angina. Nitroglycerin tablets may be placed under the tongue to allow more blood to flow to the heart. Aspirin helps the blood flow through arteries more easily by reducing the ability of the blood to clot. Beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors also may be prescribed.  Ranolazine (Ranexa) is a newer medication approved for the treatment of stable angina.