An angiogram is a procedure that allows physicians to visualize the body’s blood vessels, typically using a catheter and an injected contrast dye. This process, often performed to identify blockages or narrowing, requires a small puncture in an artery, usually in the groin or wrist. Strict post-procedure care is necessary to allow this access site to seal completely and prevent complications like bleeding or infection. Following medical instructions precisely ensures a safe and successful recovery.
Protecting the Puncture Site
The most immediate restrictions following an angiogram relate directly to the limb used for the catheter insertion. For patients accessed through the groin (femoral artery), you must not bend or flex the leg for several hours to maintain continuous pressure on the sealed artery. This limitation prevents the reopening of the small hole in the blood vessel wall, which could lead to internal bleeding or hematoma formation.
If the procedure was performed through the wrist (radial artery), you must not deeply bend the wrist for a couple of days. You must not lift, push, or pull any object heavier than about 10 pounds with the affected arm or leg for at least three to seven days. This restriction protects the closure site from the sudden increase in blood pressure and strain caused by heavy exertion.
Disrupting the dressing or exposing the wound to water must also be avoided initially. While a quick shower may be allowed after 24 to 48 hours, you must not soak the puncture site in a bath, hot tub, or swimming pool for up to a week. Submerging the wound introduces a high risk of infection, as the site is still vulnerable.
Restrictions on Physical Activity and Daily Routine
Beyond local wound care, activities that increase physical strain or blood pressure are restricted to allow the cardiovascular system to recover. You must not drive or operate heavy machinery for a minimum of 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. This restriction is due to the residual effects of sedation, which can impair reaction time and judgment. If a stent was placed, this driving restriction may be extended to a full week.
Returning to work depends on the nature of your job, but you must not engage in strenuous labor for at least one week. Even light activities like walking up stairs should be limited in the first couple of days, especially if the groin was the access point. Activities that cause straining or holding your breath, such as heavy yard work, running, or cycling, are not permitted for at least five to seven days. Sexual activity is also considered strenuous and is restricted for a minimum of 48 hours following the angiogram.
Managing Medications and Hydration
One important post-angiogram instruction is what you must not change regarding your medication regimen. You must not stop taking any prescribed anti-platelet medications or blood thinners, such as aspirin or clopidogrel (Plavix), unless explicitly instructed by your cardiologist. These medications are often restarted immediately or newly prescribed, especially after a stent placement, to prevent blood clots.
You must not neglect hydration in the days following the procedure. Drinking plenty of fluids, particularly water, is necessary to help the kidneys flush the contrast dye from your system. You must not consume alcohol for the first 24 to 48 hours, as it can interact negatively with remaining sedative medication and may increase the risk of bleeding.
Warning Signs You Must Not Ignore
You must not overlook certain warning signs that indicate a serious complication requiring immediate medical attention. If you notice significant bleeding from the puncture site that does not stop after applying firm pressure for 15 minutes, you must seek emergency medical care. A large, rapidly growing lump at the access site, known as a hematoma, also requires urgent evaluation.
Signs of infection must not be ignored, including increasing pain, swelling, warmth, redness around the wound, or any discharge. You must also monitor the limb used for the procedure for signs of compromised circulation. If the hand or foot on the affected side feels cold, numb, or tingling, or appears pale or blue, contact your doctor or emergency services immediately.