Angina Pectoris
Angina Pectoris
– A paroxysmal chest pain caused by (ischemia) due to insufficient blood flow to the myocardium.
Risk Factors:
- Atherosclerosis
- Hypertension
- Diabetes Mellitus
- Cigarette Smoking
Assessment Findings:
There are different types of Angina
- Stable angina pectoris- occurs with exertion, it is releieved by rest and does not increase in frequency or severity.
- Variant or Prinzmetal angina- is usually caused by coronary artery spasms.
- Silent Angina- is usually asymptomatic myocardial ischemia that is associated with diabetes mellitus and hypertension.
- usually describes as a (squeezing, heavy discomfort pressure)
- Pain* is the # 1 symptom. Substernal pain that can radiate to neck, jaw and back
- may be relieved by rest.
- Tachycardia, palpitations
Diagnostic Tests:
- The ECG will show an ST segment depression and T wave inversion during the anginal pain.
- The Holter monitor will reveal an ST segment depression and T wave inversion.
Interventions:
- Hold nitrates if the BP is less than 90 mm Hg.
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