Dr Malik explains everything you need to know about angina in simple terms, including causes, symptoms, treatments and how medical therapy can help manage the condition. If you suspect you may have angina, don’t delay getting checked out!
What is angina?
Angina typically refers to discomfort, heaviness or pain in the centre of the chest that spreads down to the arm and up into the neck, jaw or teeth.
Symptoms of angina
Angina can cause breathlessness, nausea or sweating. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, especially when at rest, you must have them evaluated as soon as possible.
Normally, we’ll see you promptly and arrange for some testing to see if it’s angina and assess how bad it is. This would involve:
- A resting Electrocardiogram (ECG) – this can be normal in angina
- An echocaardiogram
- An exercise Treadmill/Bike test (ETT)
- A CT Coronary angiogram
If you’re unable to perform physical exercise for any reason (such as arthritis or other physical disability), we’ll arrange a different type of non-invasive test, such as a Stress Echocardiogram (DSE), or a stress MRI scan.
If your symptoms are sever and you’re at high risk, we’ll arrange for you to have a Coronary Angiogram and then either a Coronary Angioplasty (PCI) or Coronary Bypass Surgery (CABG).
A Heart attack on an ECG
ECG of a heart attack. The changes in the red circles mean emergency angioplasty is needed.
Treating angina
If you’re diagnosed with angina, we’ll need to start drug treatment quickly to help you manage the condition.
- GTN spray – this helps to reduce pain
- Aspirin – helps to thin the blood
- A cholesterol-lowering tablet (statin) – reduces the risks of you having a heart attack or stroke
We’ll also start you on medical therapy. This could be beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, Nitrates, Nicorandil, Ranolazine or Ivabradine – all effective at treating angina.
Ready to book your consultation?
Whether you suspect you may have angina or have a diagnosis but need expert advice, book your consultation with Dr Malik today. He’ll be more than happy to see you.
Get seen quickly
As we’re a private clinic, your appointments work around you. You’ll soon have the answers you need. Start a proper treatment plan and get the quality of your life back.
Pricing
Insurance
Aortic stenosis investigations are covered by most private medical insurance policies, but please contact your insurance company prior to your appointment to obtain your pre-authorisation code to speed things up.
Self-funding
Our price list is available on request and is on display in our waiting area. For an estimation of costs please get in touch.
Why choose London Cardiovascular Clinic?
We offer a patient-centred approach, so you’ll feel looked after and have all your questions answered.
- Choose from our flexible appointment times and get seen at your convenience
- personalised treatment plans
- Get your consultancy & treatment from London’s top cardiologist
- You’ll experience a much more welcoming and relaxing experience at our private clinic that you would elsewhere
- Access video resources to help you further understand your condition and the procedures involved
