Has anyone been prescribed HRT to help alleviate daily angina? I’m still waiting on a diagnosis for my INOCA. (Ischemia with Non Obstucted Arteries). I’ve only had 6 days without chest pain in the last 4 weeks with a trip to A&E. All tests were negative for heart attack thank goodness. I’m taking verapamil, nicorandil, aspirin and a statin. I also take a double dose of Gtn at the first sign of angina which sometimes works and sometimes not! My chest pain can last from a few minutes to over 24 hours.
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Tannigirl
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If so it is quite an out dated treatment unless you have had an early menopause or had a hysterectomy.
HRT isn't recommended if you are over 60 years if you have a heart problem.
In the past HRT was suggested as a possible treatment for Cardiac Syndrome X, a term used to describe what is now known as Microvascular angina.
The research hasn't supported the routine use of HRT for Microvascular angina certainly not vasospastic angina. Though it can help women with severe menopausal symptoms.
Men also develop Microvascular or vasospastic angina.
Have you been able to see a Cardiologist who understands both Microvascular dysfunction and vasospastic angina.
They are both types of non obstructive coronary artery disease NOCAD or Ischaemia non obstructive coronary arteries INOCA? Related but distinct conditions.
It's important to get the correct diagnosis as the treatment options are different.
Beta blockers tend to help those with Microvascular angina while they can make coronary vasospasms worse - I spent 5 days in CCU after being prescribed beta blockers before my diagnosis of vasospastic angina was confirmed.
There are several other medication options which may help you better.
You need to have an engaged knowledgeable Cardiologist to work with you to find the best combination of medication that will work best for you.
It's hard when you don't have a confirmed diagnosis.
I am because of the cold weather going through as my Cardiologist says a ' hot phase'. Even in a cool phase I will have symptoms everyday and at night.
I suggest you keep a log of your symptoms, how you respond to your medication, ask for your medication to be reviewed and be referred to a Cardiologist who really understands Microvascular and vasospastic angina.
I really hope you feel more at ease soon and can access the help and support you need.
Thank you for replying Milkfairy. I value your opinion on the use of HRT. I know HRT can protect women during the menopause but was hoping it could continue after!!I’ve been accepted onto a trial with a cardiologist who is knowledgeable in both Microvascular and vasospastic angina. I last spoke with her 3 months ago and perhaps I should email her secretary to ask for a consultation to review my drugs which I feel are not working for me now.
I don’t have to do anything before chest pressure or pain starts….
All I know is that I’m having tests for microvascular and or vasospastic angina and there are only about 10 or 11 patients on the trial. I thought with such a small number I would have had my hospital appointment by now! Hopefully with covid waning up here in Scotland the NHS will be less stressed and I can, as you say, get back on an even keel.
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