Treatment of Coronary Spasm
The goal of treatment for coronary spasm is to control chest pain, prevent a heart attack, and prevent or limit future episodes.
Nitroglycerin is a medicine that is prescribed to relieve chest pain during coronary spasm. For some, long-acting nitroglycerin can even help prevent attacks.
To prevent future episodes of coronary spasm, calcium blockers are prescribed. It is important to note that the type of calcium blocker used and dosage is individualized to the patient. In many cases, larger-than-normal doses may be needed or a combination of different types of calcium blockers may be required. The doctor and patient need to work together to manage the symptoms of coronary spasm versus the side effects of the medications. Side effects of calcium blockers may include leg swelling and low pulse, but your doctor can help you manage them.
In addition to medications, it is also important to control your risk factors for heart disease and avoid the triggers of coronary spasm.
Coronary Spasm and Heart Attack
A coronary spasm can cause a heart attack but it is pretty rare if the patient is taking calcium channel blockers.
Forty percent of patients with coronary spasm have syncope (passing out) with angina. In these people, a serious abnormal heart rhythm occurs with the spasm.
If a coronary artery spasm persists for a long time, a heart attack can occur. Call 911 and get to an emergency room immediately if:
- Your chest pain does not go away after taking two doses of nitroglycerin
- You are having other heart attack symptoms
- You feel like you’re going to pass out