Patient information from BMJ

Stable angina: questions to ask your doctor

Last published:Jul 08, 2025

If you've been told you have angina, you may want to talk with your doctor to find out more. It might help to make a list of questions before your appointment. You could also take notes during your visit. Or you might want to bring a close friend or relative with you to help you write down and remember what is being said.

Here are some questions that you might want to ask.

• Why do I get angina?

• Will I have a heart attack?

• Are there tests that can show my chances of having a heart attack?

• Will treatments reduce my chances of having a heart attack?

• What treatment (or treatments) would you recommend for me?

• Will I need to have treatment for the rest of my life?

• What are the side effects of treatment?

• What can I do to help manage any side effects of treatment?

• Will I need surgery or another type of procedure?

• How do I know if my angina is getting worse?

• Do I have to stop any activities, such as sports?

• Can I still have sex?

• Should I change what I eat? If so, how?

• Are there any other lifestyle changes I can make to help my symptoms?

• Is it safe for me to drive?

• Are there any local support groups I could join, or anywhere to go for further information?

If you smoke, you might want to ask your doctor:

• Where can I find help to quit?

• What treatments are there to help me quit?

• Is there a local support group I can join to help me quit?