I had an angiogram that looked at Micro Vascular issues and had an IMR reading (index of microcirculatory resistance IMR) of 30 - which means a diagnosis of Micro Vascular Angina..
But does anyone know what this means?
Is it good or bad? Barely on the charts or well along? I’ve tried googling it but I’m not able to read into the medical stuff.
Also has anyone taken HRT of any type as part of their treatment post menopausally?
In case it helps - I’m 58,, post menopausal. Ive lost lots of weight and changed my life stlye. My medication seems to be making a difference.
Many thanks if you find time to answer! I will very much appreciate it!
Nicola x
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Nicola06
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An index of microcirculatory resistance (IMR) is used along with coronary flow reserve (CFR) to assess microvascular dysfunction.
Microvascular dysfunction is the cause of microvascular angina.
"IMR is regarded as the gold standard for evaluating coronary microcirculatory dysfunction. An increased IMR (≥25) is indicative of microvascular dysfunction, when performed in a vessel without significant coronary stenosis."
Microvascular angina is a type of angina/ischaemia non obstructive coronary arteries ANOCA/INOCA.
MVA is thought to be due to the inability of the small blood vessels of the heart not working properly, not being able to dilate or stay dilated in response to extra demands like exercise.
A raised IMR indicates that the microvessels don't function as they should.
Some people have microvascular vasospasms which is a less common cause of microvascular angina, it's treated the same way as vasospastic angina.
I live with vasospastic angina another type of ANOCA/INOCA.
My coronary arteries and small vessels go into transient constrictions, coronary vasospasms causing a lack of blood supply to the heart.
My IMR and CFR are normal as my small blood vessels can dilate in response to exercise.
Hormone replacement therapy, oestrogen in particular is thought to improve the function of the inner lining of the blood vessels.
Endothelial dysfunction can be improved by exercise, a heart healthy diet, not smoking and statins.
I am on trial of oestrogen at present, my vasospastic angina is sadly resistant to treatment and I end up in hospital at least twice a year. My Cardiologist referred me to a menopause specialist.
It's good to hear your medication is helping.
It can also help keeping a log of your symptoms to see if you can spot your triggers of microvascular angina and how you respond to your medication.
Common triggers are the cold, emotional, mental and physical stress.
There are quite a few of us on the forum who live with either microvascular and vasospastic angina, hopefully they will be along to share their experiences with you too.
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