Finding out that you have angina can bring up a mixture of feelings. You're glad you know why your chest hurts, but of course, you're also concerned because angina can be a precursor to a heart attack. Starting angina treatment is a smart move that can help ensure things don't get any worse. However, there are a few things to keep in mind as you start your treatment.
1. You might need to change or amend treatments a few times.
There are many different medications you can use to manage angina. Some people use prescribed nitrates. Others are prescribed calcium channel blockers, beta-blockers, aspirin, or statins. Your doctor will prescribe the medication that they think will work best for you, but there is still some amount of educated guesswork here. The treatment you're prescribed may not work as well as your doctor had hoped, which might mean you need to switch medications a few times. You might also need to have your dose adjusted. So, overall, just remember that beginning angina treatment is just the start of the journey. The first treatment you're prescribed may not be the one you end up sticking to long-term.
2. Treatment is not a license to live an unhealthy lifestyle.
Many cases of angina are caused or made worse by unhealthy lifestyle choices. Angina treatment can help manage angina and keep it from worsening, but it's not a license to continue living in an unhealthy manner. If you really want to improve your heart health and prevent more serious problems, like a heart attack, you need to practice healthy living. Eat a heart-healthy diet as prescribed by your doctor or a dietitian. Get plenty of exercises, and keep your stress levels low.
3. Treatment doesn't always work overnight.
When patients start taking nitrates, calcium channel blockers, or other medications to manage their angina, they often expect the chest pain to go away immediately. Sometimes this happens, but if it doesn't, don't be alarmed. Some of these treatments can take a few days to a week to really take effect. So, don't worry too much if you don't get immediate relief. If it has been a week and you're still having angina symptoms, then you should contact your doctor.
Angina treatment can alleviate your symptoms and even save your life. However, adjusting to the treatment can take a while. Contact your doctor if you have any issues or concerns.
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