An angiogram is a test that uses X-ray imaging to look at the blood vessels in your body. It is used to diagnose and treat conditions such as blockages, narrowing, or aneurysms.
Why is an angiogram performed?
To diagnose and treat conditions that affect the blood vessels, such as blockages, narrowing, or aneurysms.
Who performs an angiogram?
An angiogram is usually performed by a cardiologist or radiologist.
How does an angiogram test work?
During the test, a thin tube called a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel in your arm or leg. A dye is then injected through the catheter and X-ray images are taken. The dye helps the doctor to see the blood vessels more clearly.
How do I prepare for an angiogram test?
Before the test, you will need to fast for several hours and you may need to stop taking certain medications. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for the test.
What should I expect on the date of my angiogram test?
On the day of the test, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown and lie on an X-ray table. You will be given a sedative to help you relax.
What happens during an angiogram test?
During the test, the doctor will insert a catheter into a blood vessel in your arm or leg. A dye will be injected through the catheter and X-ray images will be taken. The doctor will then be able to see the blood vessels more clearly.
What should I expect after an angiogram test?
After the test, you will be monitored for a few hours. You may experience some bruising or soreness at the site of the catheter insertion.
Angiogram recovery
After the test, you should be able to resume your normal activities. However, you should avoid strenuous activities for a few days.
What are the risks of an angiogram test?
The risks of an angiogram test include bleeding, infection, and allergic reactions to the dye.
What type of results do you get and what do the results mean?
The results of an angiogram test will show the doctor the shape and size of the blood vessels. The results can help the doctor diagnose and treat conditions such as blockages, narrowing, or aneurysms.
When should I know the results of an angiogram test?
The results of an angiogram test are usually available within a few days.
When should I call my doctor?
You should call your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms after the test, such as pain, swelling, or redness at the site of the catheter insertion.
How long does an angiogram take?
An angiogram usually takes about 30 minutes.
Are you awake during an angiogram?
Yes, you will be awake during the test. However, you will be given a sedative to help you relax.
How painful is an angiogram?
An angiogram is usually not painful. You may experience some discomfort when the catheter is inserted.
Are angiogram and angioplasty the same?
No, an angiogram and angioplasty are not the same. An angiogram is a test used to diagnose and treat conditions such as blockages, narrowing, or aneurysms. Angioplasty is a procedure used to open blocked or narrowed blood vessels.
References
- Mayo Clinic. (2020). Angiogram. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/angiogram/about/pac-20384590
- WebMD. (2020). Angiogram. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/angiogram#1
- Cleveland Clinic. (2020). Angiogram. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/17072-angiogram
- Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2020). Angiogram. Retrieved from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/angiogram
Keywords: angiogram, X-ray imaging, blood vessels, catheter, dye, results, angioplasty