Chapter 17- Angina pectoris Flashcards
What is angina pectoris?
Angina pectoris, or angina, is chest pain caused by temporary lack of oxygen to heart tissues.
What is the most common cause of angina?
Atherosclerotic coronary artery disease.
What triggers angina pain?
Increased oxygen demand during physical or emotional stress, large meals, or sudden fear.
How long does anginal pain typically last?
Usually lasts from 3 to 8 minutes, rarely longer than 15 minutes.
Where is anginal pain commonly felt?
Midportion of the chest, under the sternum.
What are common descriptions of anginal pain?
Crushing, squeezing, or like somebody standing on my chest.
What are common areas to which anginal pain can radiate?
- Jaw
- Arms (frequently the left arm)
- Midportion of the back
- Epigastrium (upper-middle region of the abdomen)
What symptoms can accompany anginal pain?
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Sweating
What typically alleviates anginal pain?
Rest, supplemental oxygen, or nitroglycerin (NTG).
Does angina pectoris indicate heart cell death?
No, angina does not mean heart cells are dying.
What are the two types of angina?
Stable angina and unstable angina.
What characterizes unstable angina?
Chest pain occurring without a significant increase in myocardial oxygen demand.
What is the risk associated with untreated unstable angina?
Very high risk of spontaneous AMI.
How is stable angina characterized?
Chest pain occurring in response to exercise or activities that increase heart demand.
What should EMS be alert for regarding stable angina?
When stable angina becomes unstable, such as when nitroglycerin does not relieve pain.
Why can it be difficult to distinguish between angina and AMI?
Similar pain characteristics make it hard to differentiate.
What should be the initial treatment approach for patients with chest pain?
Treat initially as if they are having an AMI.
