Some Signs that Suggest that You May Need Angioplasty

Cardiac Surgery | by Dr. Manoj Kumar Daga | Published on 14/12/2021

Introduction 

Introduced in 1964, angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure, that allows experts to open a clogged or narrowed artery, to restore normal blood flow to different parts of the body. If you have been recommended to undergo a procedure due to disruption of blood flow in your arteries, you must book your appointment with BM Birla Heart Research Center in Kolkata, the only cardiac health service in the Eastern region. 

In this blog, you will find a comprehensive discussion related to signs indicating the need for angioplasty. So, make sure to give it a good read till the end so that you are mindful. However, please note that this write-up is research-based information and we don’t promote ignoring the doctor’s consultation in any way. 

What is angioplasty? 

An Angioplasty is a clinical procedure that is involved in treating blocked or narrowed blood vessels, most commonly the coronary arteries supplying the heart. A device known as a catheter, a thin flexible tube is inserted into the damaged artery during the procedure. A small balloon at the catheter's tip is inflated to widen the artery and improve blood flow to the heart. A stent is a tiny mesh tube that may also be inserted in certain situationsto help keep the artery open. An angioplasty procedure is usually used to reduce the risk of heart attacks and relieve angina, one of the signs of coronary artery disease.

What are the signs indicating the need for angioplasty? 

There are a variety of different symptoms that may call for the need for angioplasty. So if you have been experiencing any of the following symptoms, you are very likely to be recommended to go for Angioplasty by the top heart specialist in Kolkata.

• Angina - Commonly known as chest pain, it is a very common symptom associated with a wide spectrum of medical ailments, predominantly related to your heart and lungs. Blockage in the coronary arteries can also trigger chronic and persistent chest pain. If the diagnosis suggests the same, you will be recommended to go for angioplasty, to restore the normal blood flow and relieve pain and discomfort. One of the most important things that should be noted here, is that angina could also be a sign of a heart attack, with arterial blockage being the underlying cause. In such cases, the procedure can prove to be a life-saving measure.
• Pain in the Limbs - Cramps and pain in the legs and lower extremities, could be a sign that the blood supply to these parts has been disrupted. This happens when the peripheral arteries are blocked or obstructed. Initially, you will only feel slight pain and discomfort which aggravates gradually. Angioplasty can help to clear such obstructions and restore normal blood flow, without which, there will be a deficiency of oxygenated blood which will cause the cells and tissues to die, thereby giving rise to the need for amputation.
• Discoloration and swelling in the legs - Both symptoms can be a result of the lack of oxygen supply to the lower extremities. This is because the areas are not getting enough blood for nourishing and supporting cellular growth. Experts specializing in coronary angioplasty in Kolkata may recommend the procedure to release blood flow to these areas.
• Fatigue - We usually experience fatigue after indulging in some rigorous physical activity, which is quite normal. However, if you have been experiencing tiredness and exhaustion, without any reason lately, it could be a sign that the blood flow to the brain has been disrupted. You will need angioplasty to restore the healthy flow of blood to the brain in that case.
• Aggravating atherosclerosis - Patients detected with mild atherosclerosis are often recommended medication and Lifestyle changes, however, if the symptoms are becoming worse despite taking all the medicines and following the lifestyle changes, you will need an angioplasty to control the problem. You can go to the best heart hospital in Kolkata and get yourself evaluated, to know if you need angioplasty for your atherosclerosis.
• Stroke-like symptoms - Stroke is a serious condition triggered by the disrupted flow of blood to the brain. As there is a lack of oxygenated blood, it causes the brain cells to die, resulting in a severe impairment which may be physical or psychological. Blockage in the carotid artery can also trigger such symptoms and prove to be dangerous if not treated timely. To ensure a normal blood supply, angioplasty can be recommended.

Conclusion 

It is important to note that the symptoms may not necessarily signify that you need angioplasty, and this could be due to a different reason, however, it is better to not reach any conclusion without proper evaluation and assessment. The symptoms are often mistaken for some other conditions and this can lead to a delay in treatment. So, it is always better to seek expert advice before deciding anything.

FAQ-

How long a person can live after angioplasty?

After an angioplasty surgery, a person can live an active life. However, it relies on the underlying heart condition, medical condition, and the patient’s age. 

Is angioplasty safe?

Healthcare professionals refer to this surgical procedure as a minimally invasive form so the risks are comparatively less than other surgeries. However, this also depends on the patient’s age. In general, angioplasty is a safe procedure.