Coronary Spasms / Vasospasms / Variant

[Smileyian]

My Senior Cardiac Consultant advises that my presumed Coronary Spasms are unlikely to be life threatening. Also in general, CS generally have a good prognosis even in seniors like myself. Is anyone able to elaborate on what they believe " good outcome" or prognosis means ??? Thank you so much for any thoughts or advice, especially from sufferers.

[Milkfairy Heart Star]

Hi Ian,

Well all the Professors of Cardiology who have been involved in my care have said my prognosis is unknown as my risks of a having a heart attack, stroke or developing heart failure are increased.

I have a confirmed diagnosis of coronary vasospastic angina.

However that's me and you have to listen to the advice of your Cardiologist.

I see my Cardiologist every 6 months and email him if I need to when my symptoms increase.

I am on a ridiculous number of medications to try and prevent my coronary vasospasms and improve the function of my endothelium.

I adopt a heart healthy lifestyle.

I can't afford to have high blood pressure or obstructive coronary artery disease as well.

I have lived with my vasospastic angina for nearly a decade. I am not quite a senior yet.

I live with this condition and try not to 'suffer'.

Do I worry I am about to expire, no.

I haven't got the capacity to worry.

Life is for living.

[Smileyian in reply to Milkfairy]

Thanks Milkfairy. Nice response and of course I wish you well. You are a great help to many on here so thank you.

[Smileyian in reply to Milkfairy]

Milkfairy, I meant to thank you for past advice you have given to others but have been relevant to myself. I note you are on an abundance of medicine and I know how frustrating it is to remember taking them, especially if they are at different times and "with or without food. Indeed every individual has different prognosis and outcomes in the world of Heart ailments and as you say, you have endured your various Angina's for amost a decade. I have had the comfort of advice from my Consultant Prof that as long as I follow my medicine routine and eat heart healthy, then my outlook regarding Coronary Spasms are favourable, however that is subjective. My sister who lives in Kent recently me that she was diagnosed with Variant Angina when she was 53 and she is now 75 and does not take any heart medicine. I understand the Cardiologist told her 22 years ago that is was in her words not a "medical emergency". Her attacks are very infrequent lasting 10 -15 mins and primarily when she is cold or agitated. Still 22 years is a long time and I did not know that the condition was widely recognised back then. Fyi my Spasms seem to only last 10 to 15 seconds but very occasionally longer. I have less than 50 pct stenosis in 2 arteries but coronary spasms were seen and recorded in 2 separate angiograms. I often wish I could sit down with you and have a long QandA with a cuppa and an oversized Walnut Whip. Bye for now.

[Milkfairy Heart Star in reply to Smileyian]

Thank you Ian

The one thing I have learned about microvascular and vasospastic angina is that we all have our own version of the condition which requires treatment tailored to our specific needs.

Over the years there have been advances in the knowledge of how microvascular dysfunction and vasospastic angina can cause problems.

Many patients are given a diagnosis of Microvascular and/ or vasospastic angina by exclusion without proper testing.

There is well documented evidence that severe coronary vasospasms can cause a heart attack, arrhythmias even cardiac arrest.

There are several members of the forum who have had this experience.

It is great to hear that your sister has managed her symptoms so well. Unfortunately not everyone can do so.

There is always a spectrum of how a condition effects people and it seems your sister and I are are at the opposite ends.

[Smileyian in reply to Milkfairy]

I find myself totally agreeing Milkfairy. I wonder where I lie in the spectum ? Seldom problems with exertion but 15 second pains with anxiety and anger which come randomly. Difficult to live like a mouse and just agree with everyone that I actually disagree with but maybe that is what I have to do to prevent the coronary spasms..... you take good care and eat and live well.....and long.

[Milkfairy Heart Star in reply to Smileyian]

You too live long and well 😀

Do tell me when you have learned the trick to develop zen like calm when required

🧘

[Smileyian in reply to Milkfairy]

Haha....maybe not "when required" but a solid hour with youtube music after my afternoon exercise in aircon and dog walk......