Cardiac spasm

[Arthur86]

A year ago I had a heart attack due to - my cardiologist thinks - to a cardiac spasm. I exercise, eat well and now don't drink alcohol. What I struggle with is the lack of information regarding a spasm. A year on I am experiencing symptoms again but tests show I'm OK. The psychological impact has been massive. I dont know what to avoid to give myself the best possible chance of it not happen again. Anyone else in the same position? I'm a 57 Yr old female

[Milkfairy Heart Star]

Hello Arthur86

Welcome to the forum.

Vasospastic angina also known as Coronary artery spasms is not a well recognised condition.

The BHF has this information about Vasospastic angina

bhf.org.uk/informationsuppo...

I agree there is very little information however there is much more research going on.

My specialist is actively researching Microvascular and Vasospastic angina

The psychological impact of this condition is profound I agree. I am fortunate that I have the support of psychologist.

I also attended a Pain Management course.

It can take sometime to find the best combination of medication that works best for you.

I suggest you discuss the possible treatments with your Cardiologist.

Learning your stressors are important

Usually the cold, emotional and mental stress.

Avoid beta blockers and adrenaline which is found in some local anaesthetics. Pseudoephedrine in over the counter cold remedies. All can make vasospasms worse

I have to avoid Caffeine, artificial sweetners and chorizo sausage as well

There are quite a few of on the forum with vasospastic and or Microvascular angina and I am sure they will be along too to share their experiences

[Arthur86 in reply to Milkfairy]

Thanks. I've not heard my condition described as that as yet. Consultant said sometimes caused by extreme stress but nothing conclusive - that's the hard bit. The why.

[Milkfairy Heart Star in reply to Arthur86]

Do you feel you Cardiologist has an understanding of Vasospastic angina / coronary artery spasms?

There is another condition Takostubo Cardiomyopathy that is caused by extreme stress it has very similar symptoms as Vasospastic angina.

Vasospastic angina aka Coronary artery spasms can cause a Myocardial infarction non obstructive coronary arteries

MINOCA

You ask why. What aspects of the condition are you most challenged by?

[Arthur86 in reply to Milkfairy]

I struggle with not understanding why the heart attack happened - difficult to know what to change. I am still waiting for my 6 month check with the cardiologist (appointment due 13 months after attack) I will have plenty of questions. I love to exercise but again not sure whether eg spin is good or to be avoided

[Milkfairy Heart Star in reply to Arthur86]

That is a very long wait for a Cardiology follow up!

Where are you based?

Many of us ask why and never know.

Life sometimes just throws us a curve ball of unexpectedness.

Have a read of the information I sent you

Eat well the BHF and NHS has loads of good advice

Keep your BMI between 18 and 25

Manage your stress

Exercise is something that Cardiac rehab is really good at building up your conferedence.

I would contact your Cardiac rehab team for advice about exercising.

If you didn't have Cardiac rehab ask to be referred

[Arthur86 in reply to Milkfairy]

I live in Leeds. I have chased follow up twice and told I was on the waiting list. I understand that there will be many people in a worse position than I am but at least there should be advice available. I have read advice you sent - thank you. Determined to get back to a positive outlook again. I think this forum is very helpful. I don't feel quite so isolated!

[Arthur86 in reply to Milkfairy]

Thank you. Really interesting. I'll start weaning myself off coffee!

[Arthur86]

Many thanks. I really try everything to help myself so will take your advice. I am generally positive but at times tough