Prinzmetal angina (heart artery spasm)
About Prinzmetal angina (heart artery spasm)
Characterized by spasms of the coronary (heart) arteries causing decreased blood flow. The lack of blood causes chest pain and can result in a heart attack. In this condition the patient's coronary arteries do not have any fixed blockages (such as cholesterol plaques). Certain drugs or medications (cocaine, ergotamine) can trigger the events. Most events occur without a known trigger.Symptoms
Chest pain at rest that occurs in cycles, shortness of breath, sweats, nausea.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. An EKG is normal without symptoms but has characteristic changes during an attack. A heart catheterization is frequently performed to rule out fixed blockages of the coronary arteries.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), EKG, Troponin, X-ray.
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Prinzmetal angina typically responds to medications including `nitrates` and `calcium channel blockers`.Medical specialties
Cardiology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Prinzmetal angina (heart artery spasm).