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The heart pumps blood continuously to ensure the supply of vital nutrients and oxygen. When the blood vessels get clogged, they may lead to health issues and heart failure in extreme cases. Angioplasty is a procedure that can prove to be life-saving for patients suffering from blocked arteries.
What is Angioplasty?
Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to open blocked or narrowed arteries. It is also referred to as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). During angioplasty, a thin tube called a catheter is inserted into an artery in the arm or groin and threaded up to the blocked artery in the heart. A balloon at the tip of the catheter is then inflated to widen the artery.
Types of Angioplasty
There are two main angioplasty types:
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Coronary Angioplasty
This is the most common type of angioplasty procedure and is used to treat blocked or narrowed coronary arteries, which are the arteries that supply blood to the heart.
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Peripheral angioplasty
This type of angioplasty is used to treat blocked or narrowed arteries in the legs, arms, or other parts of the body.
How is the Procedure Done?
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Angioplasty is typically performed in a hospital setting. The patient is given a sedative to help them relax, and a local anaesthetic is used to numb the area where the catheter is inserted. The doctor then makes a small incision in the skin and inserts the catheter into the artery. The catheter is guided through the bloodstream to the blocked artery using X-ray imaging.
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Once the catheter is in place, the doctor inflates the balloon at the tip of the catheter to widen the artery. The balloon is usually inflated for several minutes. In some cases, a mesh tube called an angioplasty stent may be placed in the artery to help keep it open.
What is the Recovery from Angioplasty Like?
Most people can go home the same day or the next day after angioplasty. However, it is important to rest and avoid strenuous activity for numerous days after the procedure. The doctor may also prescribe medications to help prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of artery narrowing again.
Healthy Habits for Recovery
After angioplasty, it is important to make lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. These changes include:
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Eating a healthy diet
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Exercising regularly
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Quitting smoking
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Managing stress
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Controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.
Tips to Recover Faster
Here are some tips for recovering from angioplasty:
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Get plenty of rest.
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Avoid strenuous activity for several days after the procedure.
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Take your medications as prescribed.
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Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the contrast dye out of your system.
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Avoid driving until your doctor says it is okay.
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Follow your doctor's instructions for returning to work and other activities.
Healthy Habits to Reduce Your Risk of Heart Disease and Stroke
Here are some healthy habits that can help reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke:
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Eat a healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
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Exercise regularly for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
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Quit smoking.
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Manage stress.
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Control blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.
Conclusion
Angioplasty is an unclogging procedure for blood vessels, which is performed to remove obstructions and resume proper blood flow. It is a procedure usually prescribed for patients with prior health conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol levels, all of which increase the chances of developing blockage. If you have any questions or concerns about angioplasty or recovery, consult with a doctor only. Manipal Hospitals Patiala has some of the best cardiologists in Patiala to cater to your health needs. Taking over-the-counter medications for temporary relief, but leads to delayed diagnosis. Getting expert care immediately is your first step towards a healthy body. For accurate diagnosis and precision treatment visit our expert cardiologists at Manipal Hospitals Patiala or book an appointment online.
