- What it is: A procedure to see if your heart arteries are blocked using a thin tube, contrast dye, and X-rays.
- What it does: Helps your doctor diagnose coronary artery disease and plan treatment.
- Why you might need it: Chest pain, shortness of breath, or if medications aren’t helping.
- What to expect:
- Tell your doctor about allergies and medications you take.
- Lie on a table with X-ray cameras.
- Doctor inserts a thin tube into your arm or groin to inject contrast dye and take pictures of your arteries.
- Takes about 30 minutes.
- After the test:
- Rest for a while and then go home with follow-up instructions.
- Doctor will discuss results and next steps (treatment, medication, lifestyle changes).
- Risks:
- Low risk of bleeding, allergic reaction, kidney problems, or stroke.
Helps your doctor see your heart arteries and decide on the best treatment!
