Recovery After Angiography

Coronary angiography is a diagnostic or interventional procedure used to visualize the heart vessels. The procedure is typically performed through the groin (femoral artery) or the wrist (radial artery). For a complete recovery of the treated blood vessel and your body, the first 48 hours post-procedure are critically important. This guide lists the most important rules you should observe at home.

1. Protection of the Access Site & Rest

If the procedure was performed through the groin, avoid activities that strain the groin area during the first 24 hours. Try to keep your leg straight, and avoid bending or pulling your leg toward your abdomen. If it was performed through the wrist, do not lift heavy objects (over 3-4 kg) or bend your wrist excessively for the first 48 hours.

2. Care After Bandage and Pressure Application

In the hospital, pressure is applied to the access site (sometimes with a sandbag on the groin) to prevent bleeding. After discharge, the bandage on this area should remain dry for the duration recommended by your doctor (typically until the next day). Mild bruising or a small, painless lump at the entry site is normal and will disappear within a few weeks.

3. Hydration (Flushing the Contrast Dye)

A special contrast dye is injected during angiography to make the coronary arteries visible under X-ray. This dye must be filtered and excreted by your kidneys. Unless otherwise advised by your physician, make sure to drink plenty of water (at least 2-2.5 liters a day) during the first 24-48 hours.

4. Restricting Physical Activities

Avoid sports, climbing stairs repeatedly, carrying heavy loads, doing house cleaning, or standing for prolonged periods during the first 48 hours. Light walks inside the house are fine, as long as they are at a relaxed pace. Your doctor will advise you when you can return to work or driving (usually 2-3 days after the procedure).

5. Bathing and Shower Guidelines

Do not bathe or shower during the first 24 hours. Typically, after 24 hours, you may take a warm shower standing up, without scrubbing the puncture site. Swimming, taking a bath in a tub, or using a jacuzzi is strictly prohibited for the first week to avoid submersing the wound.

⚠️ When to Contact Your Doctor

Please contact your physician or visit the nearest emergency room immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• • Sudden swelling, a rapidly growing hard lump, or active bleeding at the entry site.
• • Coldness, loss of sensation, numbness, or color change (pale/blue) in the treated arm or leg.
• • Severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness.
• • Discharge, excessive redness, warmth at the access site, or high fever.