ISCHEMIC HEART DISEASE – ANGINA
Angina Pectoris is a Latin term which literally means “choking in the chest.” It is usually caused by a build-up of plaque in the arteries of the heart. This limits the amount of blood that can easily reach the different areas of the heart muscle. Angina Pectoris can often be characterized by a heavy, tight, squeezing pain in the chest. This condition generally occurs when the heart is working hard and requires more oxygen: during exercise, at times of stress, in extremes of temperature and soon after a meal. Typically, the pain develops at the same point in daily activity such as climbing stairs to the office, a certain point in the daily walk, etc.
The pain may radiate through the left arm, shoulder or jaw and can last up to 20 minutes. For some, the pain may be intense. Others may feel only a mild discomfort. Many think they are only experiencing indigestion. Some have no symptoms at all. Other symptoms of angina include sweating, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, shortness of breath, ringing in the ears, loss of speech, dizziness or fainting.
Regardless of the level of pain, any angina attack is a very dangerous situation as it is often the precursor sign of a full heart attack.
Treatment
It is nearly impossible to tell the difference between angina and a full blown heart attack so the treatment is very similar. Treat all chest pain/discomfort the same. Encourage your patient to calm down, sit down and try to relax. Immediately notify the PIC and contact Aircare Access. This person needs to be evaluated by a doctor. Time is very critical in these cases.
Additionally, the patient may have a medication called nitroglycerin to take for their pain. You can assist the patient in taking this medication, as it may ease some pain. You are not allowed to use nitroglycerin from the medical kit without first getting permission from Aircare Access.
Nitro dilates coronary arteries, allowing more blood flow through the constricted area. The patient may feel dizzy and nauseated after taking this medication. Be prepared to take the next steps. Should the situation worsen and the patient becomes unresponsive or ceases breathing, performing CPR and utilizing an AED may become necessary.
38 Circulatory System
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