What to Expect During an Angiogram

 



What to Expect During an Angiogram

An angiogram is a common and important diagnostic procedure that helps doctors visualize the blood vessels in your body. If your doctor has recommended an angiogram, you might feel a bit anxious or unsure about what the process involves. Here’s a clear, step-by-step overview of what you can expect before, during, and after your angiogram, plus how you can access this service affordably through Myhospitalnow.

What is an Angiogram?

An angiogram is a specialized X-ray test that uses a contrast dye to highlight your blood vessels, allowing doctors to detect blockages, narrowings, or other abnormalities. It’s most commonly used to check for issues in the heart (coronary angiogram), but it can also be used to examine blood vessels in other parts of the body.

Before the Procedure

  • Initial Consultation: Your healthcare provider will review your medical history, discuss any allergies (especially to contrast dye), and go over the medications you’re taking. You may be asked to stop certain medications temporarily.

  • Pre-procedure Tests: Blood tests and possibly other diagnostic tests like ECG or ECHO may be done to check your overall health and kidney function.

  • Fasting: You’ll likely be asked not to eat or drink anything after midnight before your procedure, especially if sedation or anesthesia is planned.

  • Arrangements: Since you’ll be sedated, arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.

During the Angiogram

  • Getting Ready: You’ll change into a hospital gown and lie on an X-ray table. Electrodes will be attached to your chest to monitor your heart, and a blood pressure cuff will be placed on your arm.

  • Sedation: Most patients receive a sedative to help them relax. You’ll usually remain awake, but very relaxed. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used.

  • Access Site: The doctor will numb an area near your groin or wrist with local anesthesia. A small incision is made, and a thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into your artery.

  • Imaging: The doctor guides the catheter to the area being examined and injects the contrast dye. You may feel a brief warm or flushed sensation. X-ray images are taken as the dye moves through your blood vessels.

  • Duration: The procedure typically takes between 30 minutes and 2 hours, depending on complexity and whether any additional treatments (like angioplasty) are performed.

After the Procedure

  • Recovery: You’ll be moved to a recovery area and asked to lie still for a few hours to prevent bleeding from the access site. Your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels will be monitored.

  • Going Home: Most people can go home the same day, though sometimes an overnight stay is needed. You’ll need someone to stay with you for the first 24 hours.

  • Aftercare: Expect some bruising or soreness at the insertion site. Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the dye from your system. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a few days.

  • Results: Preliminary results may be discussed before you leave, but detailed analysis can take a few days





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