Tell your doctor if you have a history of asthma, kidney or bleeding problems. Special precautions may be needed if you have one of these conditions. You may be asked not to take aspirin (including other products that contain aspirin) or prescription blood thinners for several days before the test. Discuss with your doctor when you can resume these medications.
It is extremely important to tell your doctor if you are pregnant because an angiogram is needed to detect a potential coronary artery blockage. This may result in the need for reperfusion stenting to restore blood flow to the heart. Use formula for one to two days after your angiogram if you are breast-feeding until the dye has passed through your body.
You may need to have blood taken or an electrocardiogram done before the angiogram.
Other possible dyes can cause a reaction in those allergic to shellfish.
If your test is scheduled for later in the day, do not consume any food or drink for 4-8 hours before the test.
If you are given a sedative during the procedure, this could intensify the effects of any alcohol in your system.
Remember to also notify the doctor about any medications you might be allergic to.
Following your doctor’s instructions on what to eat/drink in the 24 hours leading up to your procedure, which may include not eating or drinking anything in the six to eight hours leading up to your procedure. Removing your contact lenses, eyeglasses, hair clips, nail polish, and jewelry before the test (leave your jewelry at home, if possible). Emptying your bladder before the test because it can take several hours.
You’ll be taken to a room where you can change into a hospital gown before the procedure begins.
During this time, try to relax. Don’t let yourself stress about the results. Just enjoy taking a break while the doctors are there to watch you.
You’ll need someone to give you a ride home and help you get settled in after your procedure. Try to find someone you trust who can stay with you for a couple hours (preferably overnight) after you get home in case you need help with anything. Most medical facilities will refuse to perform an angiogram on you if you do not have a responsible adult with you who has agreed to take you home.
You should probably plan on staying home for a few days after the procedure to help you take it easy.
Ask your doctor about the outcome of the test and what the results mean for you moving forward. Are more tests required? Do you need an operation? Should you change some aspect of your lifestyle?
