Coronary Artery Spasm
A coronary artery spasm is a momentary constriction of the arterial wall muscles that supply blood to the heart. During a spasm, blood flow to a portion of the heart may be impeded or blocked. Coronary artery spasms are sometimes referred to as variant angina, vasospastic angina, or Prinzmetal’s angina.
A spasm can cause angina and possibly a heart attack if it lasts long enough. Coronary artery spasms frequently happen at rest, mainly around midnight and early morning, in contrast to typical angina, which typically occurs with physical exertion.
Coronary artery spasms are not associated with common heart disease risk factors like high cholesterol or high blood pressure. However, they frequently smoke. Quitting smoking can lower a person’s risk of spasms in the coronary arteries.
Smoking, being in the cold, experiencing significant stress, and using illegal stimulants like cocaine and amphetamines can all cause coronary artery spasms. Medications, including nitrates, calcium channel blockers, and statins, may be used as treatment.
