What precautions should one take after an angioplasty?

Prof Mohan Nair
Head of Departmjent,
Cardiology,
St. Stephens Hospital, Max Balaji Hospital,
New Delhi

Q: My father had a heart attack last month and he underwent angioplasty for 2 blocked arteries. One is still blocked and will open by regular medicine. He is diabetic with a very high sugar level. What precautions should we take to keep his health under control? Will he have any further problems in near future?

A:Although future events are unpredictable in a patient with blocked coronary arteries, some of the measures that can definitely improve the long-term outcomes are:

Strict control over sugar and cholesterol levels

Adherence to medication prescribed by the doctor

Cessation of smoking

Regular exercise

Avoid excess weight gain

Avoid sudden exposure to extreme cold or chilly weather