Stable Angina

Question 1

what causes the pain associated with angina

Answer 1

myocardial ischaemia most commonly due to atherosclerosis

Question 2

is stable angina reversible

Answer 2

yes

Question 3

what are the risk factors for developing ischaemia/angina

Answer 3

increased age 
male 
family history 
smoking
diabetes 
alcohol 
hypertension 
hyperlipidaemia 
obesity

Question 4

describe the classical symptoms of angina

Answer 4

tight central chest pain possibly radiating to neck, jaw
pain presents on exercise
relieved by resting or GTN spray
has risk factors

Question 5

what investigations are required for diagnosing angina

Answer 5

12 lead ECG ruling out ACS/detecting previous MI
FBC, U&Es
echo

Question 6

what treatment is advised for angina

Answer 6

manage underlying cause eg hypertension
lifestyle advice eg exercise
short acting GTN spray to take as required
beta-blocker or Ca2+ channel blocker to improve ischaemia
possible long acting nitrate eg isosorbide mononitrate

Question 7

does GTN cure the atherosclerosis

Answer 7

no only symptomatic relief of chest pain

Question 8

is revascularisation indicated in extreme cases of angina

Answer 8

yes

Question 9

how does a PCI work

Answer 9

dilation of affected artery by inserting balloon stenting via the femoral artery

Question 10

how does a CABG work

Answer 10

saphenous vein anastomosed to ascending aorta distal to the site of blockage to bypass the atheroma