How to Know If You Need an Angiography Test for Heart Blockage?
Heart blockage is one of the most common reasons behind chest pain, breathlessness, and fatigue in adults. Many people ignore early symptoms, thinking it’s acidity or stress. But when these signs persist, your doctor might suggest an Angiography Test to find out if your heart arteries are blocked. Understanding when and why you may need this test can help you take timely action and prevent serious heart issues.
What is an Angiography Test?
An Angiography Test (also called Coronary Angiography) is a diagnostic procedure used to check if the arteries that supply blood to your heart are narrowed or blocked. These blockages are usually caused by plaque buildup — a mix of fat, cholesterol, and other substances.
During the test, a special dye is injected into your bloodstream through a thin tube called a catheter. The dye makes your blood vessels visible on an X-ray, allowing the doctor to see if there are any blockages and how severe they are.
If you’re searching for an accurate and safe Angiography test in Baner Pune, Tejomed Heart Clinic offers advanced imaging facilities with expert supervision to ensure reliable results.
When Do You Need an Angiography Test?
Your doctor may recommend an angiography if you show symptoms or risk factors that suggest possible heart blockage. Here are some common signs and situations when it becomes necessary:
- Frequent chest pain or tightness: Especially if it occurs during physical activity or stress.
- Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing even after mild exertion can be an early warning sign.
- Unexplained fatigue: Feeling tired without any clear reason may point to reduced blood flow to the heart.
- Irregular heartbeat or dizziness: These can be linked to poor circulation due to narrowed arteries.
- Abnormal results in other heart tests: If your ECG, stress test, or 2D Echo show unusual findings, angiography helps confirm the cause.
- Previous heart attack or surgery: To check how well the heart is functioning and whether new blockages have formed.
How the Procedure Works
An angiography is done in a hospital or specialized heart clinic. You’ll be asked to lie on an examination table. A local anesthetic is given before a thin, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted into an artery, usually in your wrist or groin. The tube is carefully guided to your heart, and a contrast dye is injected.
The X-ray images taken during this process show real-time blood flow in your coronary arteries. The test usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, and you can go home the same day or the next, depending on your condition.
Is Angiography Safe?
Yes, angiography is a safe and commonly performed test. However, as with any procedure, there are small risks such as bleeding or mild allergic reactions to the dye. These are rare and managed effectively by trained professionals.
That’s why it’s important to have your test performed under the care of an experienced Heart Specialist who can ensure your comfort and safety throughout the process.
What Happens After the Test?
After the angiography, your doctor will review the images and explain the findings. If a blockage is detected, treatment options may include medication, lifestyle changes, or a procedure like angioplasty or stent placement to restore proper blood flow.
Your heart doctor in Baner will also guide you on diet, exercise, and regular follow-ups to maintain your heart health.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Ignoring early symptoms of heart blockage can be dangerous. Early detection through angiography can prevent heart attacks and permanent heart damage. If you have risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking, or a family history of heart disease, talk to your doctor about whether you need this test.
At Tejomed Heart Clinic, our specialists focus on accurate diagnosis and patient-centered care. We combine modern cardiac technology with expert medical guidance to ensure the best outcomes for your heart.
FAQs About Angiography Test
- What are the first signs that I might need an angiography?
You may need an angiography if you have frequent chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or unexplained fatigue. These can be early signs of blocked arteries. - Is angiography a painful procedure?
No, it’s not painful. You’ll receive local anesthesia, so you’ll be awake but won’t feel pain. Some people may feel mild pressure during the catheter insertion. - How long does it take to recover after an angiography?
Most people can return to normal activities within a day or two. Your doctor will advise rest for 24 hours and avoiding heavy lifting for a few days. - What’s the difference between angiography and angioplasty?
Angiography is a diagnostic test to detect blockages, while angioplasty is a treatment procedure used to open blocked arteries using a balloon or stent.