Angina
Angina causes temporary discomfort in the chest that usually happens during physical activity or when someone is upset.
Angina causes temporary discomfort in the chest that usually happens during physical activity or when someone is upset. It usually goes away after a few minutes. If it is a heart attack, the pain can come at any time, even during rest. It is more common to feel nauseous or to vomit. A heart attack will not be relieved by angina medication.
Recognition of Angina
Angina can cause:
- Pain or discomfort in the chest, often described as squeezing, pressure or tightness.
- Pain in the arms, shoulder, neck or back, even if you do not have pain in the chest.
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Nausea
Treatment for Angina
- Rest and reassure the casualty.
- Assist the casualty to self-administer their own medications as per doctor’s instructions making sure the casualty is sitting or lying down before taking their medication as this type of medication can cause the casualty’s blood pressure to drop and cause a faint (syncope)
- Loosen any tight or restrictive clothing.
- Monitor the casualty’s signs of life.
- If the chest pain lasts longer than 10 minutes (this could indicate a heart attack) or if unsure, call 000 for an Ambulance.