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Angina Pectoris (cont.)

Prevention

The best action is to reduce risk factors early in life. The goal is to not have angina, a heart attack, or sudden death in the first place. Although no one can escape aging, inherited risk, or gender, certain risk factors are in your control.

Stop smoking and using nicotine in any form.
Control high blood pressure.
Lower blood fats (through diet, exercise, and medications).
Maintain a healthy weight.
Control diabetes and blood sugar
Do not use stimulants such as cocaine or amphetamines.

If a person already has atherosclerosis and angina, they can learn to take precautions to avoid having symptoms. Avoiding the "triggers" will help keep the person comfortable and free of symptoms.

Quit smoking
Do not use caffeine, cocaine, amphetamines, or other stimulants
Drink alcohol moderately (no more than 1-2 drinks daily)
Avoid large and heavy meals that leave you feeling "stuffed"
Decrease stress
Establish a regular exercise routine (discuss the plan with your healthcare provider)

The question of exercise for a person with angina is important. Exercise is recommended.

If the patient has been exercising strenuously, they may need to cut back to avoid symptoms.
If the patient has not been exercising, or has been exercising moderately, talk to a healthcare provider first about physical activity that will be safe and comfortable. Sometimes a structured cardiac rehabilitation program is a beneficial way to begin an exercise program.

The healthcare provider may recommend taking an aspirin daily.

Aspirin has been shown to reduce the risk of a second heart attack in people who have already had one, and may reduce the risk of a first heart attack.
Taking aspirin is not without risks, especially in elderly people, people with digestive diseases or blood clotting disorders, and people who take certain types of medications.
Allergy to aspirin is not uncommon. Tell your healthcare provider if you are allergic to aspirin or have a reaction to aspirin.