An angiogram scan is a type of medical imaging that helps doctors examine the blood vessels.  It is often used to see if vessels and veins are blocked, narrowed, or otherwise not working normally.  This test is very important for finding heart diseases, stroke risks, and other problems with the blood vessels.  If your doctor has told you that you need an angiogram, you might be a little nervous about it.  You can feel less stressed if you know what to expect before, during, and after the scan. You can find all such information in this blog.

What Is an Angiogram Scan?

Special dyes and X-rays are used in an angiogram scan to check blood vessels.  This test lets doctors see how blood moves through the body and find problems like weak spots or blockages.  The tiny tube, called a catheter, is used to put the contrast agent dye into the bloodstream.  Then, the X-ray machine takes clear pictures of the blood vessels, which helps the doctors properly figure out your health issues.

General Scan Preparation

Getting ready for an angiogram scan is very important to get accurate results and a smooth process. Depending on your health, your doctor will give you specific directions. However, most people follow these general steps.

You might be told not to eat or drink for a few hours before the scan. This is because not having anything to eat or drink before the treatment lowers the risk of problems. Also, you should let your doctor know about any medicines you are taking, especially blood thinners or diabetes medicines, because they may need to be changed. Tell your doctor ahead of time if you are allergic to anything, especially iodine or contrast dye. This will help you avoid allergic responses.

As part of your general scan preparation, you should also make plans for someone to drive you home after the process. Some procedures use sedation or drugs, which can make you feel sleepy or dizzy for a few hours. It is also suggested that you wear comfortable clothes and take off any jewelry or metal objects that might get in the way of the X-ray pictures.

The Angiogram Procedure

If you have a scan, you will be taken to a special room with a team of medical workers who will help you. To begin, you will lie down on a flat testing table. The place where the tube will go will be cleaned and numbed by a nurse or worker. It's most often in the arm, wrist, or groin.

Once the doctor numbs the area, he or she will put a small tube into your blood vessel. It might feel a little tight, but it is unlikely to hurt. The tube is carefully moved to the place that needs to be examined by going through the blood vessels. The contrast color is introduced when it gets to the target area. When the dye gets into the bloodstream, some people feel warm or taste something slightly metallic.

After that, the X-ray machine takes real-time pictures of your blood vessels. The person taking the picture might ask you to hold your breath for a short time. The whole process usually takes thirty minutes to an hour, depending on how complicated the case is.

Recovery and Aftercare

For a few hours after the angiogram scan, you will be examined to make sure there are no health issues. If the tube was put in through the groin, you might need to lie flat for a while to stop the bleeding. If it was put in through the arm or wrist, you may be able to sit up sooner after a wrap is put on it.

You might get small bruises or pain where the tube was put in. These feelings are normal and will get better in a few days. The contrast dye can be flushed out of your body by drinking a lot of water. For at least 24 to 48 hours, your doctor may tell you to stay away from heavy lifting and other hard tasks. If you have any strange signs, like a lot of pain, swelling, or blood at the injection site, you should call your doctor right away.

Where to Get a Body Scan in Denton, TX

If you need an angiogram scan, you must choose a medical center you can trust.  This service is provided by a lot of hospitals and imaging sites.  Based on where you live and your medical needs, your doctor can send you to a reliable center. If you need a body scan in Denton, TX, there are several centers that specialize in vascular imaging. For example, 123 Body Scan may provide you with excellent care.