Angina Pectoris

Angina Pectoris

Drug treatments for chest pain

Angina pectoris – pain in the chest, arms or jaw – is caused by poor oxygen supply to the heart muscle. More than 90 percent of episodes are due to coronary heart disease. Nitrates and other angina drugs relieve pain by decreasing the heart’s need for oxygen and by increasing the amount of oxygen available to the heart.

Nitrates lower blood pressure by reducing the amount of blood pumped out of the heart and the amount pumped back. They also increase the oxygen supply by dilating the arteries that supply the heart and inhibiting artery spasms. This keeps the blood flowing smoothly.

LABEL:
Coronary blood vessels

Patterns of angina

✘ Mild to severe pressure in the center of the chest

✘ Pain radiating down the left arm; can cause weakness in the arm

✘ Pain radiating through the back and up into the jaw

✘ Pain in upper abdomen; can be mistaken for other disorders

Text and illustrations by Kevin T. Boyd


Acupressure for chest pain
Here is a list of acupressure points to try while seeking urgent medical attention for Chest Pain or Heart Attack, on PointFinder.org.
If this is your first time, please read the instructions. Don’t use acupressure to replace standard emergency procedures or licensed medical treatment. If you are seriously injured or have acute symptoms seek urgent medical treatment.