angiogram clear, continuing chest tightness

[sml69]

Hi,

In need of a little advice please. Just had an angiogram done privately and the coronary arteries are clear which is great news but I’m not expecting the chest tightness I experience when exercising to go away. So I’m looking for advice on my next move. Very likely the cardiologist will close my case on the NHS, so how do I push for further tests (eg for microvascilar angina) - would this be through my GP, or NHS cardiologist or back to private (which I can’t afford).m?

And advice welcomed. Many thanks

[Milkfairy Heart Star]

Hello,

I suggest you keep a diary of your symptoms.

Perhaps then ask your Cardiologist to carryout the tests to determine whether you have angina/ ischaemia non obstructive coronary arteries ANOCA/INOCA.

ANOCA is the umbrella term for microvascular and vasospastic angina.

Microvascular angina can be diagnosed by a cardiac perfusion MRI in some circumstances.

Why do you you feel you may have microvascular angina?

[Max1019]

hi, whatever you do don’t give up pursuing a diagnosis and support. A good GP will listen to you and get you a referral.

[sml69 in reply to Max1019]

Interesting you say that - I’ve just been to me GP and he is not prepared to look down that route because it isn’t cost effective for the NHS! Thanks for your reply 🙏🏽

[Twosumsmum]

it could be either micro vascular dysfunction or coronary artery y spasm . Ask at your next appointment if there’s a chance of a functional angiogram. Or maybe trail some treatment .

Anoca international has lots of information

[sml69 in reply to Twosumsmum]

Appreciate your helpful response. Thank you 🙏🏽

[Milkfairy Heart Star in reply to sml69]

This group is listed in the BHF's 'Understanding Angina' booklet as a resource. internationalheartspasmsall...

My vasospastic angina was diagnosed by a functional angiogram using acetylcholine in 2014 through the NHS.

The research shows that getting an accurate diagnosis of either microvascular and vasospastic angina, is cost effective.

Having a correct diagnosis, helps guide treatment, reduces possible risks such as heart attacks, strokes, heart failure and hospital admissions.

It also improves a person's quality of life.

Unfortunately microvascular and vasospastic angina are not well understood by many healthcare professionals.

[DiyChas]

You need to ask your cardiologist all these questions.