What is a coronary angiogram and its risks

Nowadays, the stress of everyday existence causes damage to our bodies. The heart, which is continuously working, suffers the most. If not careful, the patient may not even realize and develop a heart complication. However, timely intervention can prevent the situation from worsening. Here we will share with you everything about coronary angiogram and their risks.

What is a coronary angiogram?

To explain simply, a Coronary angiogram is a simple test that uses X-rays and sees the condition of your blood vessels. The test studies if there are any blocked, narrowed, or enlarged veins and arteries in your body. By doing this test, the doctors can assess the actual condition of your heart.

How is a coronary angiogram conducted?

The coronary angiogram is conducted by inserting a thin tube that is known as a catheter in your body. There is a liquid-colored dye that is then entered the artery through the catheter. The presence of the dye would make any kind of blockage or narrow visible on the screen. Later the dye gets discarded through your urine. Contact a Heart Specialist in Hyderabad to know more about the same.

The duration of the test

Usually, the test lasts around 30 minutes, but it can be more. When the procedure is going on, the doctors measure your heart rate using a heart monitor. In case you already have a stent in the heart, the procedure may take longer. During the test, if you face any discomfort, you should tell the hospital staff immediately.

Post the test, you may be asked to stay in the hospital for a few hours. The stay could be overnight, depending on your condition. You will be asked to drink lots of fluids so your body can eliminate the dye quickly. The nurse would explain to you how to check the area for any signs of bleeding.

Risks of coronary angiogram

Some risks that can be seen after the procedure are:

• Bleeding at the site from where the catheter was inserted

• Signs of bruising

• Allergy to the dye leads to symptoms like rashes

• Damage to the artery affecting the blood supply

• Heart attack or stroke

• Affect on kidney due to the dye used

• Damage to the tissue if the procedure is prolonged

• Serious bleeding

Factors that cause complications are dependent on the following:

• Age-old people are at high risk

• If the procedure is conducted in a hurry

• If you have blocked arteries

• Having serious heart issue

• Already have kidney complications, the dye can aggravate them further.

Summing up

Heart complications can inhibit a person’s everyday lifestyle. A coronary angiogram helps find out any kind of blockage or narrowing present in the heart. If you are looking specifically for a Heart Specialist in Hyderabad, you must contact Dr. Raghu. Having a vast experience in the field, Dr. Raghu has helped many patients tackle their heart abnormalities. With his recommended treatment, a person can get rid of any kind of issues that his heart may be experiencing. Plus, the correct treatment and guidance would ensure that the same problem will not crop up again.

Dr. C. Raghu is a Cardiologist who specializes in Interventional Cardiology procedures.