Medical Health Encyclopedia

Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test Special Topic
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Coronary artery balloon angioplasty - series
Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention
Unstable angina
Alternative Names: Accelerating angina; New-onset angina; Angina - unstable; Progressive angina Treatment: An individual experiencing unstable angina usually requires rest and hospitalization to prevent complications. Text Continues Below A cornerstone of therapy for unstable angina is antiplatelet medication (to prevent platelet aggregation, which is the initial event in the blood circulation leading to clot formation within a vessel). One antiplatelet agent widely used is aspirin. More recently, a medication called clopidogrel has shown in clinical studies to be even more effective than aspirin in reducing the likelihood of heart attacks. Clopidogrel and aspirin may be used together. They are also often administered during heart attacks. Heparin and nitroglycerin are also given during unstable angina, often sublingually (under the tongue) or intravenously (IV). Other medications include beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, anti-anxiety medications, and medications to control blood pressure and abnormal heart rhythms. Surgery may be recommended. CABG (coronary artery bypass grafting) or PTCA (balloon angioplasty), often with the implantation of a stent, may be necessary. Expectations (prognosis): The outcome varies depending on many factors. The most important factor is the severity of the underlying coronary artery disease. Other factors include the severity of the episode, past history of heart attack, and the number of medications a patient was taking when the episode began. Associated arrythmias and heart attacks can cause sudden death. Complications: Page:  1 | 2 | Next >>