When the coronary arteries become furred up and harden due to coronary heart disease (CHD) the heart muscles are starved of oxygen-rich blood, this can cause a heavy squeezing pain that can last between 5 to 30 minutes. This pain is called angina. Typical symptoms of angina which can be brought on by exercise, physical exertion, a heavy meal, shock, anger, frustration and excitement and relived by rest are:
• a pain felt behind the chest bone
• a burning pain like indigestion
• a heavy pain
• a squeezing pressure
• a tight crushing pain
• a pain that spreads from the chest into the neck, jaw and left arm
If these symptoms are more intense, accompanied by paleness, breathlessness and sweating and last longer and are not relieved by rest, this could be the beginning of a heart attack and immediate medical help will be needed quickly.
Changing your diet will help with the symptoms of angina. Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables per day, at least five portions. Reduce saturated fats in your diet, cut down on red meat and diary products. Increase oily fish such as salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines, tuna and herring in your diet. Try to eat these three times per week. Eat more fibre, a good source being oats which are found in porridge and cut down on salt, alcohol and caffeine consumption.
Changes in your lifestyle will also help with symptoms of angina. Stopping smoking and beginning an exercise regime will be beneficial, when commencing on a new exercise regime it is best to consult your doctor and exercise within your limits.
The following supplements may help if you are suffering from Angina.
Antioxidant complex
Fish Oil
Folic Acid
Garlic Tablets
Multivitamin and multiminerals
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B6
Vitamin C
Vitamin E
Stewart Hare C.H.Ed Dip NutTh
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