Abstract

Background: There is limited information available regarding evidence of ischemia with no obstructive coronary arteries (INOCA) and quality of life. Purpose: To determine associations between INOCA and self-reported physical, social, and mental health. Methods: We conducted a survey of all members (n = 1579) of the INOCA International patient support group. Current self-reported diagnosis and health measures were collected. Functional capacity was retrospectively estimated using the Duke Activity Status Index (DASI), assessing levels of activities performed prior and after symptom onset. Results: A total of 297 (20.8% response rate, 91% women) reported symptoms of chest pain, pressure, or discomfort in 92.9%. Overall, 34.4% were living with symptoms for ≥3 years before an INOCA diagnosis, and 77.8% were told their symptoms were not cardiac. Estimated functional capacity was higher prior to compared to after symptom onset (8.6 ± 1.8 METs vs 5.6 ± 1.8 METs; P < 0.0001). Most respondents reported an adverse impact of symptoms on their home life (80.5%), social life (80.1%), mental health (70.4%), outlook on life (69.7%), sex life (55.9%), and their partner/spouse relationship (53.9%), while approximately three-quarters reduced their work hours or stopped work completely, 47.5% retired early, and 38.4% applied for disability. Conclusions: INOCA symptoms are associated with adverse physical, mental and social health quality of life. Increased patient awareness, physician recognition and diagnosis, and clinical trials are needed to develop evidence-based guidelines for this increasingly recognized cardiovascular disorder.