Coronary Artery Spasm

Coronary Artery Spasm

• coronary arteries supply oxygen to the heart muscle and when a spasm is experienced oxygen to a portion of your heart muscle may be partially or completely shut off
  
• caused by a decrease in coronary artery blood flow
  
• may occur at any age
  
• occurs more frequently in women than in men
  
• early diagnosis and treatment are essential

Symptoms of Coronary Artery Spasm

• pain that may radiate to the jaw, neck, shoulders, back, and left arm
  
• pain may last for a few seconds or several minutes
  
• shortness of breath
  
• palpitations of the heart
  
• dizziness
  
• fainting
  
• symptoms seem to appear during rest of sleep (unlike angina pain which usually occurs with exercise)
  
• symptoms usually occur at the same time every day (often between 3am and 6am)

Risk Factors Associated With Coronary Artery Spasm

• cigarette smoking
  
• migraine headaches
  
• raynaud's disease
  
• thyroid disease
  
• high blood pressure (hypertension)
  
• stress

Treatment of Coronary Artery Spasm

• due to decrease in the size of the artery that occurs with a spasm - treatment is aimed at preventing constriction of the coronary artery and promoting vasodilation of the coronary artery
  
• medication to control your symptoms will be prescribed by your doctor
  
• taking medications as prescribed by your doctor will lower your risk of other related cardiac disorders
  
• consult with your doctor prior to taking any over the counter medications
  
• avoid foods which contain tyramine as they cause vasoconstriction of the arteries i.e.) aged cheese, chocolate, vanilla, red wine, yeast, soy sauce, yogurt, and dried fish - more information will be provided by the dietician
  
• inform your doctor immediately if you experience an increase in pain or unusual symptoms

Disclaimer
Reviewed by Alberta clinical experts. Brought to you by HealthLink Alberta. Copyright.
This material is designed for information purposes only. It should not be used in place of medical advice, instruction and/or treatment. For more health advice call Capital Health Link at 780-408-LINK (5465) 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In Alberta, call Toll-free: 1-866-408-LINK (5465)