The heart requires blood and oxygen as much as other body parts. Oxygenated blood reaches the heart through coronary arteries. Have you wondered what happens if these coronary arteries are damaged or blocked? No blood gets supplied in that case. This can lead to heart attack and in extreme cases death. Angioplasty is a procedure adopted to widen the blocked or narrowed coronary arteries.
With angioplasty, surgeons use a balloon to open the blocked passage, and a stent gets placed to ensure the artery does not collapse. In recent years, angioplasty has given a new life to several patients. If you have a second chance with angioplasty, ensure you take care of your heart. Following are some lifestyle changes you can adopt post angioplasty:
Taking necessary medications
Do not miss out on medications even for a day post angioplasty. Initially, your doctor may prescribe some painkillers. These help you cope with post-operation pain. Enquire with your doctor how often you can take them. The doctor also prescribes blood thinners. They are meant to thin the blood, facilitating the easier passage of blood supply. Continue these medications as prescribed.
Do regular follow-ups
After angioplasty, you get discharged from the hospital within a couple of days. Make it a point to do regular follow-ups. The doctor should be aware of your health progress and challenges. If you start experiencing chest pains and shortness of breath, visit the hospital immediately.
Adopt a healthy lifestyle
A healthy heart translates to a happy life. To ensure your heart remains healthy, you need to make conscious efforts. Follow a healthy diet and avoid having food items high in cholesterol and sodium. Your diet should be loaded with nutrients and vitamins. You should exercise regularly to keep yourself fit. Being physically inactive after surgery only has adverse effects.
Go for a jog or walk daily. Manage your weight if you are obese, which could lead to heart and other health complications.
Give up unhealthy habits
Angioplasty gives you a second chance with life. You do not want to throw that away due to unhealthy habits. You need to quit smoking and drinking for a healthier heart and life. Smoking can damage the inner lining of your artery and cause blockage. To ensure artery blockages do not happen again, quit smoking.
Excessive consumption of alcohol can cause increased blood pressure, thereby raising the chances of stroke and other complications. Hence, you should work to get it in control.
Reduce stress levels
Stress is the primary cause of every health complication. The more stress you take on, the more it strains your heart and body. Make efforts to reduce your stress levels. Consider signing up for therapy and stress management sessions.