Experts agree that an angiogram can help your doctor diagnose a heart condition so you get the best treatment for you.Your doctor will use an angiogram to look at your blood vessels.Your doctor will likely give you a mild sedative to help you relax, as research suggests that you may experience a sensation of pressure during your angiogram.You can help your test go smoothly if you prepare in advance.
Step 1: Discuss your medical history with your doctor.
If you are supposed to take your usual morning medication, ask your doctor.If you have diabetes, you should ask if you can take medication before the test.If you have a history of asthma, you should tell your doctor.If you have one of these conditions, special precautions may be needed.For several days before the test, you may be asked not to take aspirin or blood thinners.Discuss with your doctor when you can resume taking your medication.
Step 2: If you are pregnant, tell your doctor.
To avoid harming the fetus, pregnant women need to be careful.If you have just had a baby or are pregnant, you should talk to your doctor about the best course of action.It's important to tell your doctor if you're pregnant because an angiogram is needed to detect a potential heart problem.Reparing may be needed to restore blood flow to the heart.If you are breast-feeding, use formula for one to two days after your angiogram.
Step 3: Pre-procedure tests must be completed.
Your doctor will tell you what testing you need to have.Make sure you follow your doctor's instructions.Before the angiogram, you may need to have blood or an electrocardiogram done.
Step 4: If you are allergic to shellfish, tell the doctor.
The cardiac catheterization test usesodine dye.Your doctor will need to know if you have an allergy so they can explore other options.There are dyes that can cause a reaction in people who are allergic to shellfish.
Step 5: The day before your exam, don't eat or drink after midnight.
This shouldn't be a big deal because most angiograms are planned for the morning hours.It's important that you prepare for your angiogram.If your test is later in the day, you should not eat or drink for at least 8 hours before the test.
Step 6: Don't drink and use tobacco.
You should avoid alcohol and tobacco products in the hours leading up to your procedure.These can cause problems during the procedure.The effects of alcohol in your system could intensify if you are given a sedative during the procedure.
Step 7: You should take your medication with you to the hospital.
Tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following: prescription, over-the-counter, herbs, and supplements.They should be brought in their original bottles.This will help you remember to tell the doctor about your medication.Inform the doctor if you are allergic to any of the medications.
Step 8: Prepare your body.
You will need to come to the hospital for a surgery even though the angiogram is a simple procedure.You can follow your doctor's instructions on what to eat and drink in the 24 hours leading up to your procedure, which may include not eating or drinking anything for six to eight hours.Before the test, remove your contact lens, eyeglasses, hair clips, nail polish, and jewelry.The test can take several hours if you empty your bladder before it.
Step 9: Arrive at the hospital.
You need to meet with your medical team at the hospital to make sure you are prepared for the procedure.They will let you know about the risks.Before the procedure begins, you will be taken to a room where you can change into a hospital gown.
Step 10: Go to the care facility.
Patients stay at the facility for 3-6 hours after the procedure.The staff can observe you and make sure you don't have any problems.Try to relax during this time.Don't worry about the results.Take a break while the doctors are watching you.
Step 11: Pick someone to take you home.
During the angiogram procedure, you may be given a sedative.Your ability to operate a motor vehicle will be affected by this sedative.You will need someone to give you a ride home after your procedure.If you need help after you get home, try to find someone who can stay with you for a couple hours.If you don't have a responsible adult with you who will take you home, most medical facilities will refuse to perform an angiogram on you.
Step 12: Get some rest.
Getting as much rest as possible is one of the best ways to help your body recover from a procedure.This will help your body heal.You will probably feel some pain in your groin area after the procedure.Bed rest will make it easier to heal that area.Staying at home for a few days after the procedure will help you take it easy.
Step 13: Discuss it with your doctor.
Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about the procedure.Tell them how you are feeling and what problems you have had.Ask your doctor about the results of the test and what they mean for you.Is there more testing required?Do you need an operation?Should you change something in your lifestyle?