Our sedentary lifestyle has led to the rise of NCDs (non-communicable diseases). It is directly linked to economic growth and is known as “diseases of the rich”. These diseases primarily have four major risk factors: physical inactivity, excessive alcohol use, tobacco and unhealthy diets. 

The majority of these NCDs involve cardiovascular disease, and with an angiogram test in Kolkata, the risk can be easily assessed. Angiogram is basically an invasive test with no serious complications. 

But, is Angiogram Safe? You are about to find out.

What is Angiogram?

Abrupt pain in your chest, sudden jaw pain or neck pain that has no explanations, even after undergoing a non-invasive test, are the primary symptoms of coronary artery disease. Doctors recommend angiograms to detect abnormalities within the blood vessels, including weak blood vessels, plaque deposits, and clots. Angiograms have opened up the possibility to intervene and treat blockage within the heart and brain.

Why is an angiogram recommended?

Certain conditions recommend immediate angiogram test in Kolkata, such as:

• Unstable angina
• Congenital heart disease
• Non-invasive heart stress test which gives abnormal results 
• Blood vessel problems
• Chest injury or major accident
• A problem within the heart valve 

Procedure- What to expect?

Angiography/angiogram is prescribed to locate blockages within the lung, heart, brain, and smaller blood vessels. This also helps to determine internal bleeding or abnormal dilation of blood vessels. 

During an angiogram, a type of dye is injected into the blood through a long, narrow tube, which is perceptible by an X-ray machine. And, the tube is also called a catheter which is inserted into an artery located in the arms or upper thigh. A series of rapid images, also known as angiograms, are taken to get a closer view of the blood vessels.

However, angiograms are advised only after non-invasive tests fail to provide valid results or reasons.

Guidelines to be followed 

Angiograms are conducted in the catheterization lab of the cardiac speciality hospital. You need to follow specific instructions prior to the test

• You cannot eat or drink before your angiogram.
• Medications that interfere with steady blood flow cannot be taken.
• If you have diabetes, insulin or other oral medications should only be taken after consulting with the doctor.

After the test is over, you must drink plenty of fluids to flush out the dye from the body.

Is angiography expensive?

The cost of angiogram test in Kolkata depends upon multiple factors, such as:

The type of hospitals and in which city it is located.

The part of the body for which the test is being conducted, such as pulmonary, coronary etc.

Insurance covered the medical test and treatment.

About 30 minutes to 2 hours is required for the test, and the cost ranges from Rs. 8,000 to Rs. 35,000 approximately.

Are there any Side effects?

After angiography, often people report having –

• Bruises
• Sore around the area of invasion
• Accumulation of blood where the cut was made

But, there is nothing to worry about, these problems improve within a few days. Doctors suggest basic painkiller medication to alleviate the discomfort.

Are there chances of risk?

We cannot deny that this invasive procedure has some risks, but serious complications are rare. Minor complications may arise if you fail to maintain a steady recovery period. You need to give it some time to heal the incisions made. 

Possibility of minor complications

• The cut can get swollen and painful due to the presence of infection. This can be treated with antibiotics.
• An itchy rash can develop due to a mild reaction to the dye. It can be cured with medicine
• Allergic reactions to the dye can lead to dizziness, breathing difficulties, or unconsciousness.

Book an appointment with your physician, discuss any queries. At ILS Hospitals, you get to meet top medical experts and world-class treatment.