ANGINA

If pain continues call for an Ambulance. The narrowing or blockage of the arteries can cause angina. When a partial blockage occurs, there is a reduction of oxygenated blood reaching the heart muscle called the Myocardium, therefore causing pain in the heart muscle. When an Angina attack occurs there is no major damage to the heart muscle. Most casualties know and understand their problem and carry their own medication.

Types of medication:

  • Tablet: usually called Anginine, the tablet is placed under the tongue.
  • Puffer form: Nitro lingual spray, sprayed under the tongue.
  • These medications cause the Coronary arteries to widen, allowing more oxygenated blood to reach the Myocardium (or heart muscle).

Treatment:

  • Follow the Basic First Aid Plan to assess the casualty
  • Sit the casualty down.
  • Allow casualty to take their own medication.
  • Pain is relieved by rest and medication.
  • Due to a drop in blood pressure, these medications may cause the casualty to faint.

If pain continues call for an Ambulance.

Signs and Symptoms may include:

  • Pulse may be irregular, fast, slow or normal.
  • Pain may radiate to arms, neck or jaw.
  • Constant and tense to heavy pain in the chest.
  • Casualty may be short of breath.
  • Pain occurs on exertion.
  • Skin may be clammy, cold and pale (shock).
  • Pain is relieved by rest or medication.
Angina HA Training