Coronary Artery Disease
Introduction
Coronary Artery Disease affects the arteries that supply blood to
the heart muscle. It is caused by gradual build-up of fatty deposits or
cholesterol on the inner lining of the artery walls. As a result, the artery
becomes thickened, narrowed and blood flow is decreased. This condition is
known as atherosclerosis or commonly called hardening of the arteries.
Atherosclerosis
The disease may involve the
arteries in many different areas of the body, including the heart (leading to a
heart attack) and the brain (leading to a stroke).
Coronary artery disease may show
up in three common ways:
- Angina Pectoris
- Heart Attack
- Cardiac Arrest (Sudden cardiac death)
ANGINA PECTORIS
Definition
Angina Pectoris is a medical term
for chest pain or chest discomfort due to insufficient blood supply to the
heart muscle.
The pain is temporary brought on
by exertion when narrowing of the coronary artery temporarily prevents and
adequate supply of blood and oxygen to meet the demands of the working heart
muscle. Once the demands of the heart muscle decrease, the pain disappears and
there is usually no permanent damage to the heart muscle.
Signs and Symptoms
·
Chest
pain
- may radiates to one or both arms
and throat.
- pain
will be relieved by rest – usually within 10 minutes.
- pain
will be relieved by Nitroglycerin prescribed by doctor.
Nitroglycerin works in most patients within 5
minutes to relieve the pain of angina. It comes in many forms: skin patches,
ointment, spray and tablet (Glycerine Trinitrate or GTN). Spray and tablet are
placed under the tongue (sublingually).
·
Difficulty in breathing, shortness of breath
·
Face may be pale
·
Pulse rapid and weak
·
General body weakness
Treatment
¨
Have the victim rest completely. Put to
half-sitting position to ease breathing and allow comfort. Loosen all tight
clothing.
¨ Reassure the victim and administer oxygen high
flow.
¨
Find out if victim has known history of heart
disease and uses Nitroglycerin. Assist the victim in using it appropriately.
Nitroglycerin dilates the coronary arteries and increase blood flow to the
heart muscle.
¨
Monitor and record breathing and pulse every 10
– 15 minutes.