After the procedure, you will be asked to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the dye contrast out of your system. Your physician will talk to you about the amount of improvement in the artery opening and the possibility of your symptoms returning, medications, restrictions, and changes in daily habits to reduce the risk of more arteries narrowing.  You will be informed when to return for follow-up visits.

What can I do when I return home?
Avoid heavy lifting and do only light activities for a few days.  

Be sure to call your doctor if

• The insertion site bleeds
• You feel chest pain or discomfort
• Your arm or leg feels numb or cold
• The bruising or swelling gets worse or increases
• You have a fever
• Signs of infection appear at the insertion site

What if my symptoms begin to reoccur?

After a successful angioplasty, there is still a 25% chance you?re your symptoms may reoccur.  This risk of reoccurrence or ?restenosis? is higher if you do not follow your physician's instructions regarding smoking, medications, or diet.  The rate of restenosis may also be higher if you had multiple lesions dilated.  Restenosis generally occurs within four months of the procedure and is often detected by a return of chest pain.  To confirm this, a stress test may be necessary and, in most cases, another coronary angiogram will be performed.

Will there be any side effects from my medications?

Complications and side effects of blood thinners are rare, but there are some warning signals you should know.  Since these medications slow down the normal clotting time of your blood, the warning signals may manifest themselves as the tendency to bleed.  Call your cardiologist immediately if you experience:

·         Unusual bleeding from the nose, mouth, or gums

·         Blood in the urine

·         Black or bloody stools

·         Easy bruising of the skin

·         Severe or unusual headaches

·         Excessive menstrual bleeding

·         Coughing up blood

Can I take aspirin?

Aspirin increases the effect of Coumadin.  Many medications contain aspirin. Always check the label before use. Consult your cardiologist before taking aspirin. 

What if I forget to take my medicine?

It is important to take your medication faithfully as directed.  If you forget to take one dose, do not take two.  Resume your schedule as usual.