The main function of the heart is to pump blood to all parts of the body. The blood carries oxygen and food substances to the cells of the body, and collects the waste products from those cells. The circulating blood also ensures that the whole body remains at an even temperature. The heart has really … Read more
The word “congenital” means “from birth”, and when applied to heart disease, means that the baby has been born with something wrong with the function of the heart, or the way it is formed, which will affect the way it works. The heart is formed in the very early weeks of pregnancy and it is … Read more
After treatment, most people with angina can get back to a normal or near-normal life. However, many people with angina have been living excessively busy lives. You have a good reason to cut down on your commitments, if you want to. Examine the way you live – do you have to hurry to the … Read more
Preventing a disease before it happens is called primary prevention. down its progress. This is called secondary prevention. For angina, the methods of primary and secondary prevention are much the same. These least slow are: Not smoking Many deaths, especially amongst men younger than 45, are caused by heart disease which can be blamed on … Read more
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