Coronary Angioplasty, also known as Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), is a minimally invasive procedure where a small balloon catheter is inserted into a narrowed or obstructed artery to widen it. Interventional Cardiologists use this specialised technique to enhance blood flow to the heart muscles.
As a cardiac patient, you can undergo Angioplasty to alleviate symptoms of artery narrowing or blockage, namely angina (chest pain) and shortness of breath, and to lower your risk of a heart attack. The procedure may also be done in an emergency during a heart attack to unblock an artery and minimise heart damage quickly.
While Angioplasty may alleviate the symptoms of a blocked artery, such as chest pain, addressing the underlying conditions that led to the blockage in the first place is still essential after angioplasty. At Capital Heart Centre, we recommend following the steps below to prevent future blockages in the same artery and recover as quickly as possible.
Quit Smoking
It is highly advisable for all patients who have gone through Angioplasty to stop smoking. Smoking damages the lining of arteries and promotes fat accumulation, which can narrow arteries and impair blood circulation throughout the body. Both active smokers and those exposed to secondhand smoke face a significantly higher risk of developing more severe heart conditions. The harmful and persistent effects of smoking could ultimately negate the benefits of undergoing Angioplasty.
Manage Stress
Any form of stress poses risks to heart health. Elevated stress levels can trigger physiological responses in the body, including increased heart rate and blood pressure. Over time, chronic stress can lead to arterial damage and plaque buildup within the arterial walls, potentially necessitating interventions like Angioplasty.
Therefore, patients should prioritise stress reduction measures. Engaging in relaxation practices such as yoga and meditation or pursuing stress-relieving hobbies can effectively manage stress levels and promote good heart health.
Eat a Heart Healthy Diet Rich in Nutritious Food
Dietary adjustments are often recommended by cardiologists to aid in faster healing, minimise complications, and expedite recovery, while also reducing the risk of arterial plaque buildup. We advise you to consume a balanced diet, eating more heart-healthy foods and fewer foods that are harmful to your heart.
Foods That Benefit the Heart
Whole Grains:
Whole grains are filled with fibre, vitamins, and minerals, supporting heart health. The soluble fibre in whole grains helps decrease LDL “bad” cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of arterial plaque buildup. Additionally, their lower glycemic index aids in regulating blood sugar levels and decreasing the chance of having diabetes, a major contributor to heart disease.
Fruits and Vegetables:
Fruits and vegetables are a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals crucial for heart health. Potassium-rich options such as bananas, oranges, and broccoli contribute to maintaining healthy blood pressure and reducing the risk of stroke and heart disease.
Healthy Fats:
Healthy fats found in olive oil, avocados, and fatty fish like salmon are vital for heart health. They increase HDL “good” cholesterol levels while lowering LDL cholesterol levels, making people less prone to arterial plaque buildup and heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids in fatty fish have anti-inflammatory properties, lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Nuts, Beans, and Seeds:
Nuts, beans, and seeds are loaded with protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals, promoting heart health. Their unsaturated fats help lower LDL cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. They also contain antioxidants and phytochemicals with anti-inflammatory properties, supporting overall heart health and reducing cardiovascular risk.
Foods That Can Worsen Heart Health
Food High in Sugar:
High-sugar foods contribute to weight gain, insulin resistance, and inflammation, increasing the risk of heart disease. Minimising the consumption of sugary snacks and beverages reduces the risk of cardiovascular conditions.
High Sodium Food:
High sodium intake is linked to high blood pressure, a key risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Rather than opting for sodium-laden processed foods, choose fresh, whole foods.
Processed Meats:
Processed meats, high in saturated fats and sodium, can raise the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. Regular consumption of items like bacon and deli meats is associated with arterial inflammation and damage, posing risks to heart health. Limiting the intake of processed meats supports heart health.
Saturated and Trans Fat:
Saturated and trans fats raise LDL cholesterol levels, contributing to arterial plaque buildup and heart disease. Foods like red meat and baked goods contain saturated fats, while trans fats are found in fried foods and margarine. Choosing healthier fats from sources like nuts and olive oil improves heart health.
Drink Plenty of Fluids
Moreover, adequate hydration is crucial for maintaining overall heart health. As a rule of thumb, men should consume 3.7 litres (13 cups) and women should consume 2.7 litres (9 cups) from all beverages and foods combined. This is because proper hydration ensures optimal blood volume, aiding in the maintenance of healthy blood pressure levels. Dehydration can strain the heart by thickening the blood, impeding its ability to pump efficiently. Therefore, staying well-hydrated is essential for supporting the heart’s function and reducing the risk of cardiovascular conditions.
Engage in Structured Exercise Gradually
After Angioplasty, it’s important for patients to gradually reintroduce exercise into their routine, but this is recommended only after the first week following the procedure. Begin with light activities like walking and slowly increase intensity over time. Consult your Cardiologist before starting any exercise programme to ensure it’s safe for your condition. You may also be referred to a Cardiac Rehabilitation programme run by Cardiac Physiotherapists to ensure that you exercise in a safe and supervised manner.
In general, people should do at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise five to seven times every week to improve heart health and overall well-being. At the same time, listen to cues from the body and stop if you experience any discomfort or pain. In the long run, regular exercise can help strengthen your heart and reduce the risk of future heart problems.
Return to Regular Routines Gradually
After Angioplasty or stenting, most individuals typically require a couple of weeks to resume their normal activities slowly. It’s important to adopt a gradual approach during this period. For planned angioplasties, returning to work is generally feasible after a week. In contrast, recovery from emergency procedures post-heart attack may extend over several weeks or months before full readiness for work is attained. Additionally, driving a car should be avoided for at least a week after the procedure.
Take Medications As Prescribed
A cardiologist often prescribes specific medications to take after an Angioplasty to help with proper recovery. These may include:
- Antiplatelet or blood thinner medication to prevent blood clotting which could be taken up to 1 year after the surgery
- Statins to lower cholesterol
- Heart medications such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers to keep arteries open
- Nitroglycerin may also be prescribed to widen blood vessels
- Painkillers can help manage discomfort.
However, patients should discuss potential side effects of these medications with their Cardiologist before discharge. Prompt consultation with a specialist is essential if any side effects occur or if patients have concerns, allowing for timely resolution of complications. If you are considering consumption of any other medication, including supplements, consult with your Cardiologist first.
Monitor Your Health Properly
Patients who undergo Angioplasty and stent placement should attend regular follow-up appointments with their heart specialists. It’s crucial for them to attend all check-ups and to monitor cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar levels diligently. Any significant changes in the levels above or sudden and intense pain should prompt immediate consultation with a Cardiologist. These could be signs of life-threatening complications such as a sudden blockage of the stent due to a blood clot, which can lead to a heart attack or other severe conditions.
In cases of emergency stent placement, patients may be required to attend additional follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing of the catheter insertion site. Further diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or CT scans, may be prescribed during these follow-up sessions if necessary.
Book an Appointment with Capital Heart Centre
If you need further advice on what to do after an Angioplasty and post-angioplasty complications, make an appointment with an experienced heart specialist like Dr Joshua Loh. Dr Loh is the Medical Director at Capital Heart Centre as well as a Senior Consultant Cardiologist. He is experienced in doing Angioplasties and providing patients with expert rehabilitation advice after the procedure.
References
- Meril Life Sciences Pvt. Ltd. (n.d.). 8 Lifestyle Changes to Be Adopted After Angioplasty. Meril Life Sciences Pvt. Ltd. Retrieved from https://www.merillife.com/blog/medtech/8-lifestyle-changes-to-be-adopted-after-Angioplasty
- NHS. (2022). Coronary Angioplasty – Recovery. NHS. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronary-Angioplasty/recovery/#:~:text=If%20you%20had%20a%20 planned,able%20to%20 return%20to%20work.
- Ministry of Health Singapore. (n.d.). Search Results. Ministry of Health Singapore. Retrieved from https://www.moh.gov.sg/cost-financing/hospital-bills-and-fee-benchmarks-search-result/detail?Code=SD810H–1&HasSurgicalProcedure=true
- Everyday Health. (2023, June 3). Diet After Angioplasty. Retrieved from https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/Angioplasty-recovery-guide/diet-after-Angioplasty/