stable to unstable angina

hello sorry if daft question but can stable angina change / develop into unstable angina? Or do you only get one or the other? Just wondering why I’m getting discomfort/ pain on sitting as well as my usual pain on moving. Thanks

[Hidden]

From the NHS webpage on Angina...

"Some people develop unstable angina after having stable angina."

If you are concerned about the change in your symptoms perhaps you should talk to your GP.

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

thanks so it is possible I will look this up per NHS site, under a cardiologist so will update them on this development.

[Milkfairy Heart Star]

Yes.

Stable angina (chronic coronary syndrome ) can develop into unstable angina ( acute coronary syndrome)

With unstable angina you tend to experience chest pain at rest which isn't necessarily relieved by taking GTN spray. The chest pain can be more severe and last longer than usual.

You can have the same symptoms with vasospastic angina too which can also develop into unstable angina.

If you have any concerns give 111 or 999 a call.

[Hidden in reply to Milkfairy]

thanks, I asked as I had a “little episode” this evening, felt sick and light headed and I would say mild to moderate chest pain. Less pain than when I move but distinct enough to get my attention so thought worth asking on here. last visit cardiologist said I must not take GTN as will make me worse re myocardial bridge. But a bridge can cause vasospasms so all confusing.

[Milkfairy Heart Star]

It sounds as though you are between a rock and a hard place.

I don't use GTN spray either as it works then I get worse rebound vasospasms.

If you keep having worsening chestpain at rest , I suggest you go to A&E to be checked out.

[Hidden in reply to Milkfairy]

urgh A&E…….. I will though if worsens / more persistent.

[Milkfairy Heart Star in reply to Hidden]

I know, I hate going to A&E too.

I hope everything settles down for you soon.

[Kristin1812 Heart Star]

Interesting posts. I had both unstable angina and stable, for a good while. As the name suggests the unstable was pretty unpredictable. The Drs were much more concerned at it, saying always go to A&E , as it’s gives a higher risk of HA (I’d had three). They persisted a good while until we found a drug combination that works pretty well.

MilkFairy has described the unstable pattern well, with often early morning events. They woke me up, and were less responsive to GTN. Mine could also crescendo even if I was lying down. It felt quite different to stable.

[Hidden in reply to Kristin1812]

thank you for describing, i will watch this new development.