5 Warning Signs You May Need a Coronary Angiogram – News18

Last Updated:November 13, 2024, 09:09 IST

Timely intervention can be improved by identifying these symptoms and comprehending the function of a coronary angiography

Coronary angiography is a diagnostic technique that shows the heart’s blood channels clearly, allowing for the identification of any narrowing or blockages that might prevent the blood from flowing freely. While this test is not necessary for everyone with heart symptoms, some warning indicators point to the necessity of coronary angiography for more investigation. By identifying these symptoms, major consequences can be avoided and the decision regarding coronary artery health can be informed. Dr. Akshay Kashid, Consultant Cardiology, Manipal Hospital, Baner, Pune shares all you need to know.

1. Constant Chest Pain or Unease:Regular chest pain may indicate the necessity for coronary angiography, particularly if it extends to the shoulders, arms, neck, or jaw. This pain, which is commonly referred to as angina, is a common sign of limited blood flow to the heart and usually feels like pressure or tightness. Angiography can be used to further assess coronary artery disease (CAD), which is suggested by angina that gets worse with exercise and gets better with rest.
2. Shortness of Breath, Particularly with Physical Exertion:Though there are number of causes of shortness of breath, if the breathlessness is typically ‘Angina Variant’, if it is rapidly progressive and we can rule out other causes clinically; then we must keep in mind about plan of coronary angiography. Breathing difficulties, even when engaging in small physical activity, can often be linked to coronary artery problems. Breathing may feel difficult if the heart is having trouble efficiently pumping blood that is rich in oxygen. Breathlessness can occur gradually or unexpectedly, indicating the need for testing, especially in people who have other heart disease risk factors.
3. Frequent Episodes of Dizziness or Lightheadedness:Frequent lightheadedness or dizziness could be a sign of a cardiac problem that needs more research. The body may react by feeling unsteady or faint when the supply of blood to the heart is compromised. Even though these symptoms don’t always indicate heart disease, they tend to be warning indicators that require an angiography if they persist and can’t be explained by other causes.
4. Unexplained Fatigue or Physical Weakness:Sudden physical weakness or persistent, inexplicable weariness could be mild but important indicators of coronary artery problems. An overall feeling of exhaustion results from fatigue, which is caused by the heart’s inability to pump oxygen-rich blood effectively. When this ailment restricts previously feasible daily tasks, it can be quite troubling. In these situations, an angiography could shed light on whether problems with blood flow are causing the weariness.
5. Unexpected Findings in the First Heart Tests:Doctors sometimes suggest a coronary angiography for a more thorough evaluation when initial heart tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), stress test, or echocardiogram, reveal abnormal results. These tests can identify anomalies in heart function brought on by stress, irregular heart rhythms, or indications of previous heart damage. An angiography enables a closer examination of the arteries and assists in identifying any blockages that need to be treated when preliminary testing indicates concerns.Importance of Coronary Angiography for Monitoring and Timely Intervention:Check angiography is indicated in some special conditions like pre- requisite before open heart valvular surgery, sometimes evaluation of high-risk coronary artery disease in susceptible individuals with multiple co-morbidities before posting for non-cardiac surgeries. It is important to check angiography is sometimes indicated post angioplasty to know the condition of stents if patients get the symptoms.

   Timely intervention can be improved by identifying these symptoms and comprehending the function of a coronary angiography. The outcome of the process offers vital information on coronary health, allowing for more accurate treatment choices, such as prescription drugs, lifestyle modifications, or, if necessary, surgery. Better outcomes tend to occur with early detection and treatment of coronary artery disease, highlighting the need to respond to these warning indicators.