Which are the symptoms of Prinzmetal Angina?

Symptoms of Prinzmetal Angina

Prinzmetal angina, also known as variant angina or vasospastic angina, is a type of chest pain that occurs due to a temporary narrowing or spasm of the coronary arteries. Unlike other forms of angina, Prinzmetal angina often occurs at rest and is not necessarily triggered by physical exertion or emotional stress. It is important to recognize the symptoms of Prinzmetal angina as they can indicate an underlying heart condition that requires medical attention.

1. Chest Pain

The hallmark symptom of Prinzmetal angina is chest pain or discomfort. The pain is typically described as a squeezing or tightness in the chest, similar to the sensation experienced during a heart attack. The pain may radiate to the left arm, shoulder, jaw, or back. It often occurs during the night or early morning hours, but can also happen during the day.

2. Episodes of Pain

Prinzmetal angina is characterized by episodic chest pain that comes and goes. The pain episodes can last anywhere from a few minutes to half an hour. They may occur regularly or intermittently, with symptom-free periods in between. The frequency and duration of the episodes can vary from person to person.

3. Triggers

While Prinzmetal angina can occur at rest, certain triggers can provoke the episodes of chest pain. These triggers may include exposure to cold temperatures, emotional stress, smoking, or use of certain medications that constrict blood vessels. It is important to identify and avoid these triggers to minimize the occurrence of symptoms.

4. Nitroglycerin Relief

One characteristic feature of Prinzmetal angina is the rapid relief of symptoms with the use of nitroglycerin. Nitroglycerin is a medication that helps to relax and widen the blood vessels, improving blood flow to the heart. Individuals with Prinzmetal angina often experience a significant reduction in chest pain within a few minutes of taking nitroglycerin.

5. EKG Changes

During an episode of Prinzmetal angina, changes in the electrocardiogram (EKG) may be observed. These changes are typically transient and occur due to the temporary narrowing of the coronary arteries. EKG changes can help in diagnosing Prinzmetal angina and differentiating it from other types of angina.

6. No Blockages

Unlike other forms of angina, Prinzmetal angina is not caused by atherosclerosis or plaque buildup in the coronary arteries. Instead, it is primarily due to the spasm or constriction of the coronary arteries. This is why individuals with Prinzmetal angina often have normal or minimal blockages in their coronary arteries when evaluated through angiography.

If you experience symptoms suggestive of Prinzmetal angina, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Prinzmetal angina can increase the risk of heart attack and other serious cardiac events. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination, medical history review, and diagnostic tests, to confirm the diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.