When it comes to heart health, timely diagnosis is as important as treatment. One of the most common and effective diagnostic procedures for detecting blocked or narrowed arteries is angiography. If your doctor has recommended this test, you might be feeling anxious or unsure about what to expect.
At Shri Balaji Aarogyam Hospital, recognized as the best cardiac hospital in Kurukshetra, our cardiology experts believe that informed patients feel more confident and prepared. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before, during, and after an angiography — including lifestyle tips, safe exercise routines after a heart attack, and the 5 warning signs your heart may give you before trouble strikes.
What is Angiography?
An angiography is a minimally invasive imaging test that uses a special dye and X-rays to see how blood flows through your coronary arteries. It helps cardiologists:
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Identify blockages or narrowing in the heart’s arteries.
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Plan treatments such as stenting or bypass surgery.
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Assess heart conditions after chest pain, a heart attack, or other cardiac symptoms.
It’s often considered the “gold standard” in diagnosing coronary artery disease.
Why Might You Need an Angiography?
Your cardiologist may recommend angiography if you experience:
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Chest pain (angina) that doesn’t improve with medication.
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Shortness of breath during activity or rest.
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Unexplained fatigue and dizziness.
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Heart attack symptoms, such as pain radiating to the arm, jaw, or back.
5 Warning Signs Your Heart May Be in Trouble:
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Persistent chest discomfort or tightness.
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Shortness of breath with minimal exertion.
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Swelling in legs, ankles, or feet.
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Irregular heartbeat or palpitations.
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Extreme fatigue, even after rest.
If you notice these 5 Warning Signs , consult a cardiologist at Shri Balaji Aarogyam Hospital immediately.
How to Prepare for an Angiography
1. Medical Evaluation
Before scheduling the procedure, your cardiologist will review your:
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Medical history
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Allergies (especially to iodine or contrast dye)
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Current medications
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Kidney function tests
2. Fasting Instructions
You’ll usually be advised not to eat or drink for 6–8 hours before the angiography. This reduces the risk of nausea during the procedure.
3. Medication Adjustments
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Blood thinners (like aspirin, clopidogrel, or warfarin) may need to be paused or adjusted.
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Diabetic medications (especially metformin) may be temporarily stopped to protect your kidneys.
Never make these adjustments without your doctor’s approval.
4. Inform Your Doctor About:
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Any pregnancy or possibility of pregnancy.
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Past allergic reactions to dyes or contrast agents.
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Kidney disease, since the contrast dye can affect kidney function.
5. Clothing and Essentials
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Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
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Remove jewelry and valuables before the procedure.
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Carry your medical records and test reports.
What Happens During an Angiography?
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Sedation & Local Anesthesia – You’ll remain awake but relaxed. A numbing injection will be given at the catheter insertion site (usually the groin or wrist).
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Catheter Insertion – A thin tube is inserted into the artery and guided to the heart.
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Dye Injection – Contrast dye is released into your blood vessels.
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X-ray Imaging – Special cameras capture detailed images of blood flow and blockages.
The procedure usually takes 30–60 minutes.
After the Procedure: Recovery and Care
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Hospital Stay: Most patients are monitored for a few hours; some may stay overnight.
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Rest: Avoid strenuous activities for at least 24–48 hours.
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Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to flush out the contrast dye.
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Wound Care: Keep the catheter insertion site clean and dry.
Safe Workout Routine After a Heart Attack or Angiography
Cardiac health doesn’t end with diagnosis — it requires a Safe Workout Routine and long-term commitment to lifestyle changes. Exercise, when done safely, plays a major role in recovery.
Recommended Activities:
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Walking: Start with 10–15 minutes a day and gradually increase.
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Light stretching & yoga: Improves flexibility and reduces stress.
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Stationary cycling: Low-impact cardio for strengthening the heart.
Golden Rules for Safe Exercise:
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Always consult your cardiologist before beginning any workout routine.
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Warm up and cool down for at least 5 minutes.
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Avoid lifting heavy weights or sudden bursts of activity.
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Stop immediately if you feel chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath.
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Join a cardiac rehabilitation program at Shri Balaji Aarogyam Hospital for supervised exercise.
Lifestyle Tips for a Healthy Heart
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Balanced Diet: Prioritize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
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Quit Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of heart blockages.
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Limit Alcohol: Excessive drinking strains the heart.
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Manage Stress: Meditation and deep breathing can reduce stress-induced heart problems.
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Regular Checkups: Schedule follow-up visits at the best cardiac hospital in Kurukshetra for preventive care.
Why Choose Shri Balaji Aarogyam Hospital for Cardiac Care?
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State-of-the-art Cath Lab for precise angiography and angioplasty.
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Experienced cardiologists with a strong track record in complex heart procedures.
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24/7 emergency cardiac care for heart attacks and critical conditions.
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Comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation programs to support long-term recovery.
Our mission is to provide patient-centric, evidence-based care, making us the most trusted choice for families seeking heart treatment in Kurukshetra.
Conclusion
Preparing for an angiography doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By knowing what to expect, following pre-procedure instructions, and taking steps for post-care, you can ensure a smooth experience. Remember, angiography is not just about diagnosing heart disease — it’s about taking proactive steps to protect your life and well-being.
At Shri Balaji Aarogyam Hospital, the best cardiac hospital in Kurukshetra, we’re here to guide you at every step — from angiography preparation to heart-friendly workouts and preventive care.
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