Can a person live with angina?

As a medical professional with expertise in cardiology, I can assure you that it is indeed possible for a person to live with angina, particularly if it is managed properly through a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and medical procedures when necessary. Angina is a type of chest pain that occurs when the heart muscle doesn't get enough oxygen-rich blood. It is often a symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD), where the heart's blood supply is blocked or reduced by fatty deposits in the coronary arteries. Unstable angina is a more severe form that can indicate a higher risk of a heart attack, but with appropriate treatment, many individuals can lead productive lives. Treatment for angina typically includes: 1. Medications: These can help to increase the blood flow to the heart muscle and decrease the workload on the heart, such as nitrates, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers. 2. Lifestyle Changes: Patients are often advised to adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and smoking cessation. 3. Medical Procedures: In some cases, procedures like angioplasty or coronary artery bypass surgery may be necessary to improve blood flow to the heart. It's important to note that while most people with unstable angina do not go on to have heart attacks, it is a serious condition that requires ongoing medical attention and management. With proper treatment and adherence to a prescribed treatment plan, many people with angina can live productive lives for many years.

It's normal for you to worry about your loved one's health and future, but you should know that most people with unstable angina do not have heart attacks. Usually, angina becomes more stable within eight weeks. In fact, people who are treated for unstable angina can live productive lives for many years.