gtn spray

[2rivers]

I was diagnosed with angina a few years ago and at the prescribed GTN spray, I have to say I rarely use it partly due to the headache it causes!

I also have severe COPD for which I use various inhalers, I was just wondering would the GTN spray be beneficial to me for help with breathlessness? for example when climbing stairs?

Many thanks

John.

[Tos92]

Hi 2rivers

I also have a GTN spray in order to help relieve the pain which I experience from coronary vasospasms and a congenital heart defect known as myocardial bridging.

I use it very rarely; however, when I do, I experience an increase in my heart rate, dizziness and a headache sometimes as you describe.

As far as I’m aware, a GTN spray can be used to relieve SOB (shortness of breath) if brought on by symptoms of angina due to the narrowing of coronary arteries, leading to less oxygen, causing pain and SOB.

However, if the SOB is from your COPD, then I don’t think you should be using the GTN spray for this. It should be used if you are experiencing SOB and pain from your angina.

[Milkfairy Heart Star]

Hello,I suggest you contact your GP, Respiratory Nurse or Specialist to ask whether it's safe to use GTN spray while having severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

I suggest you ask for your breathlessness to be reviewed by the COPD team caring for you.

You could also give the BHF helpline a call.

bhf.org.uk/informationsuppo...

Also perhaps contact the British Lung Foundation

asthmaandlung.org.uk/

[Hidden]

Hi 2rivers,

Thanks for being part of the community!

This is just a reminder that content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and your doctor. Please avoid making any changes to your medication or advising others to do the same, without speaking to a health professional first.

Many thanks,

HU_Moderator

[Hidden]

I watched a Jeremy Clarkson show once where they took Viagra (i believe viagra and gtn is similar chemicals) and they said high altitude climbers also find this drug to be useful for increasing oxygen intake. Not sure if its true or not but of course its best to get the answer from the doc