At SHIFAA PAN African Hospital, we specialize in diagnosing and treating various cardiovascular conditions, including Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) and its associated symptoms such as Angina. Our team of experienced cardiologists and cardiovascular surgeons is dedicated to providing comprehensive care to improve the heart health of our patients.

Conditions Overview:

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a common heart condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, which supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. When these arteries become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque (atherosclerosis), it can lead to reduced blood flow to the heart, causing symptoms such as chest pain or discomfort known as Angina.

Symptoms of Angina:

Angina is often described as a feeling of pressure, tightness, or squeezing in the chest. It may also manifest as discomfort in the arms, shoulders, neck, jaw, or back. Some individuals may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea, or dizziness along with chest pain. The symptoms of Angina typically occur during physical exertion or emotional stress and subside with rest.

Diagnosis and Evaluation:

To diagnose Angina and assess the severity of Coronary Artery Disease, our cardiologists utilize various diagnostic tests and imaging techniques. These may include:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): A non-invasive test that records the electrical activity of the heart to detect abnormalities.
• Stress Testing: Evaluates how the heart performs during physical exertion or stress, often combined with imaging techniques such as echocardiography or nuclear imaging.
• Coronary Angiography: Invasive procedure using contrast dye and X-rays to visualize the coronary arteries and identify blockages or narrowings.
• Cardiac CT Angiography: Non-invasive imaging technique that provides detailed images of the heart and coronary arteries using computed tomography (CT) scans.

Treatment Options:

Treatment for Angina and Coronary Artery Disease aims to relieve symptoms, improve blood flow to the heart, and reduce the risk of complications such as heart attack or stroke. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment options may include:

• Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a heart-healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing stress can help control risk factors and improve heart health.
• Medications: Various medications such as nitroglycerin, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and statins may be prescribed to relieve symptoms, lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and prevent blood clots.
• Revascularization Procedures: In cases of significant coronary artery blockages, revascularization procedures such as angioplasty with stent placement or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery may be recommended to restore blood flow to the heart muscle.
• Cardiac Rehabilitation: A structured program including exercise training, education, and counseling to help individuals with heart disease recover faster, improve their quality of life, and reduce the risk of future cardiac events.

Our Commitment to Cardiac Care:

At SHIFAA PAN African Hospital, we understand the importance of early detection, accurate diagnosis, and personalized treatment for patients with Coronary Artery Disease and Angina. Our multidisciplinary team works collaboratively to develop individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring the best possible outcomes and improved quality of life.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of Angina or has been diagnosed with Coronary Artery Disease, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our experienced cardiologists for comprehensive evaluation and personalized care. Your heart health is our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way.