Angina pectoris with normal coronary arteriogram refers to a medical condition characterized by chest pain or discomfort caused by insufficient blood flow to the heart muscles, despite having normal coronary arteries. This condition is often referred to as microvascular angina or cardiac syndrome X.
Angina pectoris is a type of chest pain that occurs when the heart muscle does not receive an adequate supply of oxygen-rich blood. It is commonly caused by a partial obstruction or narrowing of the coronary arteries, which reduces blood flow to the heart. However, in some cases, individuals may experience symptoms of angina even when their coronary arteries appear normal during diagnostic tests such as angiography.
The term "normal coronary arteriogram" indicates that the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart, do not show any significant blockages or obstructions. However, further investigation reveals that the underlying cause of angina in these cases may lie in the small blood vessels within the heart, known as microvessels, which are not visible in traditional angiograms.
The symptoms of angina pectoris with normal coronary arteriogram are similar to typical angina and include chest pain or discomfort that may radiate to the arms, shoulder, neck, jaw, or back. The pain is often triggered by physical exertion or emotional stress and is relieved by rest or medications. Additional symptoms may include shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea.
The exact cause of angina pectoris with normal coronary arteriogram is unclear and may involve abnormalities in the function or regulation of microvessels. Treatment options may include medications to control symptoms and improve blood flow, lifestyle modifications such as exercise and stress reduction, and addressing any underlying risk factors like high blood pressure or diabetes.
