Coronary bypass graft surgery (CABG) has been used for the last 25 years as an additional method of relieving angina. This it does in most cases, usually abolishing it completely or making it much less severe. It has also been shown to prolong life in those with advanced coronary disease. Like all major surgical procedures, … Read more
The procedure of coronary angioplasty has been in increasing use for the relief of angina since it was introduced some 15 years ago. It is really an extension of … Read more
Beta blocker drugs are swallowed whole, and act by slowing down the heart rate. They reduce the heart’s work so that it needs less oxygen. When they are taken regularly, they can reduce the frequency of angina attacks. Beta blockers can, sometimes, cause cold hands and feet, and tiredness. They are usually not suitable if … Read more
Drugs are usually used at first, but for some people angioplasty or surgery may be needed. Drug treatment of angina to the heart or they can reduce the work it has to do. Drugs can help in two ways. They can either increase th blood supply If you are taking drugs, remember that your doctor … Read more
Your doctor can usually tell if it is angina from what you say your pain feels like, where it is, and what brings it on. Your blood pressure will be checked, and then more tests may be done to see if there are other heart problems. The tests could include: An electrocardiogram (ECG) This is … Read more
Pain in the chest does not always mean that there is anything wrong with your heart. Some people mistake simple aches from muscles and nerves in the chest for angina. Anxiety and tension are common causes of pain in the chest. Sometimes this is sharp stabbing feeling but it may be a persistent ache under … Read more
If one or more of your coronary arteries becomes narrowed, the blood supply to your heart muscle may be restricted. During exercise or emotional stress your heart has to do more work than usual, and so the muscle needs more oxygen. If the blood cannot deliver enough oxygen, the muscle will “complain” by causing ANGINA. … Read more
Angina is an uncomfortable feeling in the chest that is usually brought on by exercise or emotional upset. For some people it is hardly a pain at all, but for others it can be severe. The commonest complaint is of a heaviness or tightness in the middle of the chest. This may spread to the … Read more
Sometimes after a stroke relatives are unable to cope because the patient is too disabled or they are too infirm. Sometimes the patient has no family and cannot manage without support. The family doctor and a social worker should be consulted about possible options.
Staff at the local Department of Health and Social Security will be able to advise on the entitlement to one or more of the benefits available for disabled people. The system is quite complicated and expert advice is needed to get the right combination of benefits.