ANGINA

[Red18]

Hi does anybody experience pressure being put around there adams apple when they have a angina attack. Not sure if it is a angina symptom or anxiety? Many thanks

[Nathan53]

Hi Red - Simple answer is yes some people (myself included) experience angina in the throat. I find it difficult to explain but I experience a tight feel, like pressure as though something is pressing on my Adams apple. Throat scan revealed no throat or thyroid abnormality. Have you had thyroid blood test just to rule out abnormal levels. Is the pain eased with GTN spray?

[Red18 in reply to Nathan53]

Hi Nathan. I didn't use the GTN spray. Ai don't like using the spray. It maybe a psychological thing. Admitting I do have Angina. I have been following a plant based diet virtually and I thought there would be some improvement. How lo g have you had Angina for Nathan?

[Nathan53 in reply to Red18]

Hi Red - My angina started about a year back now however at first I thought it was a reflux stomach problem. When I eventually consulted a Doctor she became concerned that I also felt short of breath and refered me to A&E. Cut a long story short I was diagnosed as having a heart attack (NSTEMI) following abnormal ECG and raised troponin level. I was admitted spent a week in hospital and had 2 stents in a 98% blocked artery. I have blockages in 3 other arteries (varied levels) managed by medication at present. Also mild leak on aortic valve. I often experience low level ache in throat, on occasions it increases I use GTn spray. Initially I tried to minimise use of GTN because of the headache it gave me and also low blood pressure but I don't put off using now if needed, on advice of Cardiologist who explained I was putting myself at risk if I didn't use it. I generally only get a mild headache now - the body adapts I think. Using your spray will help you identify whether it is effective which you can use as evidence when discussing with your GP / Cardiologist.

[Red18 in reply to Nathan53]

Thankyou so very much. Will use my GTN spray more. Good luck with your long term health.

[Healthyheart1 in reply to Red18]

Hi Red18, I also don't like using my spray but I do use it now. I have only had one mild angina attack in three weeks, a record for me. The spray tends to make me feel tired the rest of the day. I don't kn ow whether that's normal. I'm feeling stronger day by day so I don't k now if I had to take my spray now what it would be like. Good luck with everything.

[Magrat69 in reply to Red18]

Just read your reply and this resonates with me. I have been trying to avoid using my spray but having read your post I will start to use it as I should. Thank you

[Clerkenweller in reply to Nathan53]

I experience tightnes in the lower jaw and neck. All quite ‘normal’. I was a foolish old man holding off using the spray until a very experienced cardiac nurse put me straight. If the severity of an attack builds use the spray. I personally am extremely doubt about a vegan diet changing anything.

[Nathan53 in reply to Clerkenweller]

I think us 'oldies' can tend to be stoic and put up with things. As far as reasons for CHD my personal opinion is that like many illness's there are usually a number of contributing factors not just one. I am sure we all know people who drink smoke and have a high fat non vegan diet and don't exhibit CHD. I enjoy food and think it's important to find healthier foods you enjoy. I have virtually cut out all processed foods which are often loaded with trans fats and sugars. Mediterranean style diet for me works best, I still eat chicken & turkey in small quantities. A quick meal for me if I don't want to cook would be skinless and boneless mackerel fillets (tinned) with a mixed salad and slice of wholemeal bread. Enjoy the good things in life you are wiser than you think.