Stable Angina
Alternate Names : Angina Pectoris
How is the condition diagnosed?
Stable angina is usually diagnosed by a history of chest discomfort that is
caused by exertion but goes away with rest. A physical exam may reveal signs of
hardening of the arteries. An electrocardiogram, or ECG, is a recording of the heart's electrical activity. An
ECG is usually normal when a person has no pain, and it shows certain changes
when pain develops. An ECG done during exercise will show similar changes even
before angina develops.
A cardiac catheterization, or coronary
angiogram, is a procedure that is used to look for narrowed coronary arteries.
A contrast agent is injected into an artery and X-rays are then taken. This procedure can
be used to find narrowed blood vessels supplying the heart. Experts disagree
about who should undergo a cardiac catheterization. It may be useful for:
a person who has severe angina that affects his or her ability to lead
a normal life
a young, vigorous person who has a large amount of healthy heart at risk if
he or she has a heart attack
someone whose diagnosis is not clear
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