Angioplasty

Book a consultation with one of our doctors if:

You experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue: These could be signs of a recurrence of blockage or other heart-related issues. Early detection and intervention are crucial.
You have concerns about your medications or side effects: Don't hesitate to discuss any concerns you have about your medications or any side effects you're experiencing.
You notice persistent bleeding, redness, or swelling at the insertion site: While some minor discomfort is expected, persistent issues at the insertion site could indicate infection and require medical attention.
You have difficulty managing your activity level or experience unusual pain during activity: If following your doctor's activity recommendations becomes difficult or you experience unexpected pain, consult your GP.
You experience severe or persistent chest pain: Angioplasty is meant to improve angina, not worsen it. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe or persistent chest pain.
You have sudden shortness of breath or difficulty breathing: This could be a sign of a heart attack or other serious cardiac event. Don't hesitate to call emergency services or seek immediate medical attention.
You experience signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or worsening redness and swelling at the insertion site: These symptoms could indicate a serious infection and require prompt medical attention.
You experience any concerning symptoms not mentioned above: If you experience any unexpected or concerning symptoms following angioplasty, err on the side of caution and seek medical attention from your GP or emergency services if necessary.

Information

Book a consultation with one of our doctors if:

You experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue: These could be signs of a recurrence of blockage or other heart-related issues. Early detection and intervention are crucial.
You have concerns about your medications or side effects: Don't hesitate to discuss any concerns you have about your medications or any side effects you're experiencing.
You notice persistent bleeding, redness, or swelling at the insertion site: While some minor discomfort is expected, persistent issues at the insertion site could indicate infection and require medical attention.
You have difficulty managing your activity level or experience unusual pain during activity: If following your doctor's activity recommendations becomes difficult or you experience unexpected pain, consult your GP.
You experience severe or persistent chest pain: Angioplasty is meant to improve angina, not worsen it. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe or persistent chest pain.
You have sudden shortness of breath or difficulty breathing: This could be a sign of a heart attack or other serious cardiac event. Don't hesitate to call emergency services or seek immediate medical attention.
You experience signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or worsening redness and swelling at the insertion site: These symptoms could indicate a serious infection and require prompt medical attention.
You experience any concerning symptoms not mentioned above: If you experience any unexpected or concerning symptoms following angioplasty, err on the side of caution and seek medical attention from your GP or emergency services if necessary.

Do:

Follow your doctor's instructions carefully: This includes taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and adhering to any activity restrictions.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eat a heart-healthy diet, exercise regularly, manage stress, and quit smoking (if applicable) to promote overall heart health and reduce the risk of future blockages.
Take your medications as prescribed: Medications may help prevent blood clots, lower cholesterol, and manage blood pressure to keep your arteries healthy.
Be aware of warning signs: While uncommon, be mindful of chest pain, shortness of breath, or other symptoms that might indicate a problem. Contact your doctor if you experience any concerning symptoms.
Gradually resume activities: You may experience some soreness at the insertion site. Gradually increase physical activity as tolerated and with your doctor's guidance.

Don't:

Engage in strenuous activity too soon: Strenuous activity can put strain on your healing body. Rest and gradually increase activity as instructed by your doctor.
Lift heavy objects: Lifting heavy objects can put pressure on the catheter insertion site. Avoid heavy lifting for the recommended period by your doctor.
Smoke or use tobacco products: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of future blockages. Quitting smoking is crucial for long-term heart health.
Neglect your follow-up care: Regular checkups are essential to monitor your progress and ensure your arteries remain open.
Drive immediately: Depending on the procedure and medication, you may be advised to avoid driving for a certain period. Follow your doctor's instructions regarding driving.

Possible Questions:

Before Angioplasty:

Can you describe your symptoms, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue?
Do you have any risk factors for coronary artery disease (CAD), such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease?
Are you currently taking any medications?
Do you have any allergies to medications or contrast dye used during the procedure?
Have you had any previous surgeries or medical procedures?

After Angioplasty:

Are you experiencing any pain or discomfort at the catheter insertion site?
Have you noticed any bleeding, redness, or swelling at the insertion site?
Are you taking your medications as prescribed?
Have you experienced any chest pain, shortness of breath, or other concerning symptoms since the procedure?
How are you managing your activity level? (This gauges adherence to activity restrictions)
Do you have any questions or concerns about your recovery or medications?

1.Symptoms

What are some symptoms of blocked arteries?

Blocked arteries can cause various symptoms depending on the location of the blockage. Here are some common ones:

Chest pain (angina) - This can feel like pressure, tightness, or squeezing in your chest, often brought on by exertion and relieved by rest.
Pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs - This can occur if the arteries supplying blood to your legs are narrowed.
Shortness of breath - This can happen if the arteries supplying your heart are blocked.
Stroke symptoms - If the blockage affects arteries in your brain, you might experience sudden weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking.

Visit our Symptoms & Causes page for more information.

2.Diagnosis

How do doctors diagnose blocked arteries?

Diagnosis of blocked arteries typically involves a combination of:

Medical history: Your doctor will discuss your symptoms and risk factors for artery blockage, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and diabetes.
Physical exam: They will listen to your heart and check for pulses in your arms and legs.
Imaging tests: Tests like chest X-ray, echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart), angiogram (X-ray using contrast dye to visualise arteries), or CT scan may be used to assess the location and severity of the blockage.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

Are there other tests that might be done?

In some cases, additional tests like a stress test or a blood test to check cholesterol levels may be performed.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

3.Treatment

What are the benefits of angioplasty?

Angioplasty can improve blood flow, reduce symptoms like chest pain, and potentially prevent heart attack or stroke.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

Are there risks associated with angioplasty?

As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks associated with angioplasty. These include bleeding, infection, damage to the artery, and allergic reaction to the contrast dye. Discuss these risks with your doctor.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

4.Insurance

At LIPS we work with a wide range of insurance providers. However, coverage for angioplasty will depend on your specific plan. Please contact LIPS to discuss your insurance and get an estimate for the cost of your procedure.

Will my insurance cover angioplasty?

Coverage for angioplasty varies depending on your insurance plan. LIPS can assist you in understanding your coverage and can provide a letter of medical necessity if needed.

Does LIPS offer financing options?

LIPS may offer financing options for patients. Please inquire with them directly for details.

How does LIPS work with the National Health Service?

Our goal is to give you answers as quickly as possible and get you on the right treatment path fast – no strings attached. When you come to us, you will be seen by a qualified specialist who can determine if your situation is serious or not that same day. We don’t want you to wait weeks on end for an appointment because every minute counts when it comes to something as important as your health. If your situation is serious, our specialist will write to your doctor on the NHS advising them that you need an urgent appointment.