Why Am I Still Experiencing Chest Pain After Stent Placement?

Experiencing chest tightness and angina after stent placement?

Hello doctor, I had three new absorbable stents placed on August 21, and it has been 1.5 months since then.
However, I still experience angina almost every day, along with a tight sensation in my chest that sometimes radiates to my back.
Additionally, I often feel dizzy and easily fatigued, making it difficult to walk for long periods.
Why am I still experiencing these symptoms after having the stents placed, and what should I do? Thank you!

Ani, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/08

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, your discomfort may not necessarily be related to angina.
A stent cannot address issues other than coronary artery narrowing.
It is advisable to discuss this with your attending physician.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2016/10/08

More Info

Experiencing chest pain after stent placement can be concerning, especially when the procedure is intended to alleviate symptoms related to coronary artery disease. It is important to understand that while stents are effective in restoring blood flow to the heart, they do not guarantee the complete resolution of symptoms for every patient. There are several potential reasons for the ongoing chest pain and discomfort you are experiencing.

1. Incomplete Revascularization: One possibility is that the stent may not have fully resolved the blockage in the artery, or there may be other areas of the coronary arteries that are still narrowed or blocked. This can lead to ongoing symptoms such as angina (chest pain) and discomfort.

2. Stent Thrombosis: Although rare, stent thrombosis can occur, where a blood clot forms at the site of the stent, leading to reduced blood flow and chest pain. This is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.

3. Vasospasm: Another potential cause of chest pain is coronary artery vasospasm, where the arteries temporarily constrict, reducing blood flow to the heart muscle. This can happen even in the presence of a stent.

4. Non-Cardiac Causes: It is also important to consider non-cardiac causes of chest pain, such as musculoskeletal pain, gastrointestinal issues (like acid reflux), or anxiety, which can mimic cardiac symptoms.

5. Cardiac Rehabilitation: If you are experiencing fatigue and dizziness, it may be beneficial to engage in a structured cardiac rehabilitation program. These programs are designed to help patients recover after heart procedures and can improve overall cardiovascular health.

Given your symptoms of chest pain, back pain, dizziness, and fatigue, it is crucial to follow up with your cardiologist or healthcare provider. They may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, or stress testing, to evaluate your heart's function and the status of the stent.

In the meantime, it is essential to manage risk factors for heart disease, including maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity as tolerated, and adhering to prescribed medications. If you are experiencing severe symptoms or if your pain worsens, seek immediate medical attention.

In summary, while stent placement is a significant step in managing coronary artery disease, it does not always eliminate symptoms entirely. Ongoing chest pain can arise from various factors, and a thorough evaluation by your healthcare provider is necessary to determine the underlying cause and appropriate management strategies.

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