Microvascular angina frustration.

[Krazykate]

Hi everyone,

Im 47 (some will have seen a couple of posts before) and in September I was diagnosed with Cardiac Syndrome X (microvascular angina). I had crippling chest pain on slight exertion but as there were no beds in Coronary Care, where I would have seen a cardiologist, I ended up in an acute medical ward instead. The staff and consultant there were lovely and very proactive management wise, Ive never had so many ECGs and GTN doses in my life! But sadly little info given. As is typical with CSX, all my results were clear apart from my age, history, a slight ST depression and chest pain on exertion. This is when the unfortunate dismissive attitudes began. My cardiologist didnt even come to see me and when I was diagnosed. I was told, quote, “Its unstable microvascular angina, theres nothing we can do, your GP can alter your meds.” Discharged home, confused and terrified. No answers to why it all suddenly started, my management, prognosis.....and I still have chest pain at least twice daily and feel like a limp rag every afternoon. I saw a GP 2 weeks ago who put an urgent referral to the cardiologist and to the cardiac rehab nurse. The nurse telephoned me with an obvious tone that I was taking up her precious time, which was confirmed by her saying ‘why do you need a referral, I only deal with post MIs and cardiac surgery, not angina.’ Nothing like prevention is better than cure eh?! Yesterday I went to a nurse specialist as now my legs, feet and hands are very swollen (has anyone else experienced this) Im aware Amolodipine can cause this but I have been on it for weeks and the swelling suddenly started in the last 7-10 days. My chest pain is now present on sitting. Im sitting here writing this with a hard dull ache in the centre of my chest radiating through to my shoulder blade. Im sure very many of you know that feeling of dread of whether its going to be stopped by the spray (which my teenage girls call ADS......the Anti Death Spray, lol!) or youre going to end up in an ambulance. I was asked to come back to the GP today and she phoned the cardiologist to chase my referral. The cardiologist informed her that I dont need to see him as the GP can deal with medication. My GP told me she had never heard of Cardiac Syndrome X/ microvascular angina and would read up on it for my review in 2 weeks!!! So here I am, legs like tree trunks, chest pain, unable to drive, unable to work, worrying and terrifying my family and friends around me (including myself if im honest) and no one gives a damn. VERY frustrating. Has anyone got this condition or experienced this lack of medical interest? These are my meds - Bisoprolol, Atorvostatin, Clopidegral, Amolodipine, Isosorbide Mononitrate and Anti Death Spray! Which Ive just taken and it better bl**dy work!!!

😀😀😀

[skid112 Heart Star]

Hello, my word you have been through it haven't you. I am so sorry to hear of your experience, have you tried the BHF helpline ? They may be able to suggest something else, 0300 330 3311. Sadly it's only a 9 to 5 number

[Krazykate in reply to skid112]

Hi there. I haven't tried the helpline. I'll have a look on their web site and see what its all about. Many thanks for the suggestion...anything helps!!!

[Hidden]

Hi Kate - sorry to hear you've had a rough ride of it so far. Cardiac Syndrome X/microvascular angina is one of those conditions that's steadily rising in prominence, but as of yet not everyone is fully aware of what it is or how to treat it. It might be worth researching a cardiologist who has a special interest in the condition and asking your GP to refer you to them, which you have the right to ask for.

Our magazine article might also be helpful for you to read through: bhf.org.uk/heart-matters-ma...

Hope this helps, Chris

[Krazykate in reply to Hidden]

Thankyou for you reply Chris. Much appreciated.

[Angie7]

Hi Kate

I'm in a similar position. I had been having Angina symptoms for a long time that had got progressively worse. I had a Myoview that showed i had Angina. I had several attacks at rest and the GTN spray didn't help. So i had an angiogram and it showed no blockages. So the consultant said it's may by microvascular but to be honest many people don't even believe in it so it's more likely that your myoview was wrong and you don't have angina and maybe it's acid reflux? . I can't do the slightest bit of exertion without it triggering an attack and it still happens at rest but i don't bother going now to a& ee when it happens in the night ( i've had to do in two previous occasions It's not acid reflux as i have no indigestion burping sore throat. I also get bad palpitations in exertion. I'm waiting to see a different cardiologist. Nicorandil has helped me a bit, much better than the spray ( the side effects made me ill) But it seems to me that some cardiologists hold the view if they can't see it then it doesn't exist, which is rather egotistical in my view. I know someone else who has it who's cardiologist takes it seriously and treats her so i think it's down to finding a good one, good luck with it

[Krazykate]

Thank you Angie. I get somewhat frustrated at not having a tangible label. I feel that illness equals treatment equals better life. Unrealistic I know. I have had my isosorbide mononitrate tablets tripled and what a difference so maybe there is light at the end of the tunnel for me. Still want to understand the whole thing a bit more, I think asking directly for a cardiology appointment may be the only answer.

Best wishes to you

Katie

[Jenbobaggins]

Anyone know of any consultants who specialise in this based in the North West? Struggling to find anyone