Angiosclerosis is a procedure that can help reduce the risk of a heart attack by opening blocked arteries.A catheter is inserted in a small opening in the groin, leg, or wrist.A trained surgeon or cardiologist navigates the catheter through the arteries to widen them.Patients need to take the time to recover after a heart surgery.If you refrain from strenuous activity, keep the insertion wound clean, and commit to a heart-healthy lifestyle, you can safely recover from an angioplasty.
Step 1: For several hours after the procedure, stay still.
You have to remain still for several hours after the procedure.You can rest in either the recovery area or the hospital room.It is important to stay away from the catheter site.Within 24 hours, you will most likely be discharged.You may feel some pain if you have a heavy bandage.Staying still and leaving the bandage in place after the procedure will help stop any bleeding.If you are told to do so, do not remove the bandage.
Step 2: A family member or friend can take you home.
You will not be able to drive immediately after the procedure, so make sure to ask a family member or friend to take you home.Walk for about 5 to 10 minutes if you stop every hour.It is recommended that you stay in a hotel overnight if you will be in the car for more than two hours.Wait at least a week after the procedure.Stand, stretch your legs, and walk in the aisle every hour when you fly.
Step 3: Rest for a week after the procedure.
Keep your activity levels low for the first few days after your procedure.It is important to rest after a procedure because you may feel tired and weak.Take short walks around your home and rest for the majority of the day.
Step 4: Gradually you will resume your normal activities.
Most patients can return to work within a week after the procedure, but it is important to gradually build up to them.It is important to talk to your doctor about when it is safe for you to return to work.The times may be different from person to person.
Step 5: Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise are not recommended.
Do not engage in strenuous exercise, play sports, or lift heavy objects for at least 7 days after the procedure.Lift anything heavier than a gallon of milk.Don't take the stairs more than twice a day.Walk up more slowly when you do.
Step 6: Follow your doctor's advice.
An anti-platelet medication may have been prescribed by your doctor.They may have suggested that you take a pain killer.Call the clinic if you have questions about your medication or dosage.Don't stop taking your medication until your doctor tells you to.
Step 7: The bandages should be removed the next day.
You should wait until the day after the procedure to get rid of the dressings and bandages.Take a warm shower to get rid of the tape.
Step 8: Take a look at the area.
It is normal for the site to be bruised and pink for a couple of days after the procedure.A small lump on the site can be as large as a quarter.Call your doctor if you experience redness at the site and if the lump is larger than a golf ball.If you have a high temperature, you should contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the symptoms.If the area begins to bleed, immediately contact your doctor or hospital.
Step 9: The site should be covered with a small bandage.
You will need to keep the site covered since it is an open wound.Place the bandage over the site.
Step 10: The site should be washed daily.
To keep the wound clean, be sure to wash it with warm water and soap.If you want to gently cleanse the area, use a warm washcloth.Do not use anything on the wound.
Step 11: Take showers for a week.
Don't take baths, go swimming, or Jacuzzi for a week after an angioplasty.The best way to keep the wound clean is to shower.
Step 12: Aerobic exercise can be increased.
After you have recovered from your procedure, talk to your doctor about starting an exercise routine.Exercise can lower your cholesterol and blood pressure.The average person should engage in 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week or 30 minutes for 5 days.Ask your doctor if this is right for you.You can take a brisk walk on your lunch break, swim laps in a pool, or cycle around your neighborhood.
Step 13: A balanced diet is what you should eat.
Increase the amount of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet to support your cardiovascular health.Don't eat red meat too often, and instead eat fish and poultry.Cut back on processed foods and fried foods as much as possible.You can eat fish like salmon, trout, or herring a few times a week.Omega 3s in fish help support heart health.Whole grains are rich in fiber.Increasing your fiber intake can help with weight management.Enjoy a cup of oatmeal for breakfast and swap out white breads and pastas for whole grain versions.
Step 14: Smoking should be stopped.
Smokers have a higher risk of having a stroke and are more likely to develop cardiovascular diseases than non-smokers.Once you kick the habit, your heart and lungs will heal, even if you are a long-time smoker.If there is a support group in your area, ask your doctor or National Network of Tobacco Cessation Quitlines for assistance.
Step 15: You can enroll in a cardiac rehabilitation program.
Cardiac rehabilitation programs help patients establish an exercise program, commit to healthy lifestyle changes, and focus on eating a heart-health diet.Patients who have had a heart attack are covered by most U.S. health insurance companies.If you want to enroll in a program in your area, talk to your doctor.