What is stable angina?
Stable angina is chest pain caused by reversible myocardial ischaemia due to fixed atherosclerotic narrowing of coronary arteries, typically triggered by exertion or stress.
What is the underlying pathophysiology of stable angina?
Fixed atherosclerotic plaque causes reduced coronary blood flow; during exertion, oxygen demand exceeds supply, leading to ischaemia.
How does stable angina differ from ACS?
Stable angina involves fixed plaque without rupture or thrombosis and causes predictable exertional pain; ACS involves plaque rupture and thrombosis.
What triggers chest pain in stable angina?
Physical exertion, emotional stress, cold weather, or heavy meals that increase myocardial oxygen demand.
How is pain typically relieved in stable angina?
Pain is relieved by rest or sublingual GTN, which reduces myocardial oxygen demand.
What are typical symptoms of stable angina?
Central chest tightness or pressure, may radiate to arm/jaw, predictable pattern, relieved by rest.
What ECG changes may be seen during angina?
Often normal at rest; transient ST depression during exertion or pain.
What is the role of troponins in stable angina?
Troponins are normal because there is ischaemia without myocardial necrosis.
What is the main aim of stable angina management?
To relieve symptoms, improve quality of life, and reduce cardiovascular risk.
What lifestyle measures are important in stable angina?
Smoking cessation, weight control, exercise, diet, and management of risk factors.
