Increases HR, reducing the time the heart spends in diastole (the time of greatest coronary blood low), resulting in an increase in myocardial O2 demand.
Isometric exercise of the arms (e.g., raking, lifting heavy objects, snow shoveling) can cause exertional angina.
Temperature Extremes
Increase the workload of the heart.
Blood vessels constrict in response to a cold stimulus.
Blood vessels dilate and blood pools in the skin in response to a hot stimulus.
Strong Emotions
Stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, activating the stress response.
Increase the workload of the heart.
Consumption of Heavy Meal (e.g., holiday meals)
Can increase the workload of the heart.
During the digestive process, blood is diverted to the GI system, reducing blood low in the coronary arteries.
Tobacco Use and Environmental Tobacco Smoke
Diminish available O2 by increasing the level of carbon monoxide.
Nicotine stimulates catecholamine release, causing vasoconstriction and an increased HR.
Sexual Activity
Increases the cardiac workload and sympathetic stimulation.
In a person with CAD, the extra cardiac workload may precipitate angina.
Stimulants (e.g., cocaine, amphetamines)
Increase HR and BP and subsequently increases myocardial O2 demand.
Stimulate vasoconstriction and subsequently decreases myocardial O2 supply.
May precipitate dysrhythmias
Circadian Rhythm Patterns
Manifestations of CAD tend to occur in the early morning after awakening.
