Angina

Angina pectoris is a common symptom, usually reflecting coronary artery disease. As the location and extent of the coronary disease, along with the quality of the left ventricular function, determine prognosis, it is important to make an accurate diagnosis as soon as possible. Management is designed both to relieve symptoms and thereby improve the quality of life, and to help to identify those at most risk so that we can select optimal therapy, which will also lengthen life. This handbook is designed to be practical and covers the problems of identifying the condition, prescribing treatments, and referring patients to appropriate specialists. It also describes the tests that are required and the time when they should be implemented, and outlines the part to be played by angioplasty and surgery.