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If you’ve recently had a stent placed, you probably have questions like, “What can I eat? Can I exercise? How long until I feel like myself again?” Let’s dive into these questions and explore what to avoid after stent placement to ensure a smooth recovery and long-term health.
A stent in the heart is a tiny, mesh-like tube that’s inserted into an artery to keep it open after a blockage is cleared. It’s typically done during a procedure called angioplasty. A PCTA, full-form percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty, is where a small balloon is inflated inside your artery to widen it.
Stent as a support structure for your artery, ensuring blood flows freely to your heart. It’s a game-changer for people with coronary artery disease. But here’s the thing: the stent doesn’t magically solve everything. Life after Angioplasty may be hard, but your job now is to support your heart with a healthier lifestyle.
Stents are usually placed to address blocked arteries caused by plaque buildup, which restricts blood flow. This can lead to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or even a heart attack.
By restoring proper blood flow, stents help alleviate these symptoms and significantly lower your risk of future cardiac events. But to keep things running smoothly, you’ll need to make some adjustments in your daily life.
Recovery after stent placement varies from person to person. For most people:
Heart Stent Recovery Time: You might be back to light activities in a few days, but complete recovery could take a few weeks.
Rest: It is your best friend in the early days. Avoid pushing yourself too hard, and listen to your body.
Here’s a list of things you should avoid after stent placement, along with tips to make the recovery process as smooth as possible.
This is a big one. After stent placement, follow the schedule and prescribed medications by your healthcare provider to prevent blood clots and keep your stent working properly. Some of the medications your doctor may suggest include:
Skipping these meds increases the risk of a serious condition called stent thrombosis, where the stent gets blocked.
If you smoke, quitting is non-negotiable. Smoking damages your blood vessels, increases your risk of blood clots, and makes your stent less effective. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle after angioplasty is essential.
Diet plays an essential role in your recovery. Fried and greasy foods as they are high in unhealthy fats that can clog your arteries. Processed snacks are loaded with salt and preservatives, which can raise your blood pressure. Higher intake of sugar can lead to weight gain and diabetes, both of which strain your heart.
Incorporate healthy foods like fresh fruits and veggies, whole grains and lean proteins like fish and chicken
Exercise is important, but you need to ease into it. In the first few weeks, stick to light activities like walking. Gradually, you can add more as your doctor approves. Avoid heavy lifting and high-intensity workouts.
Gentle activities like yoga or simple stretching can help you stay active without overexerting yourself.
During recovery, pay attention to your body. If you experience persistent chest pain, dizziness, fainting, swelling or redness at the incision site, contact your doctor immediately. These could be signs of complications that need prompt attention.
Stress isn’t just a mental issue—it affects your heart, too. An imbalance in stress levels can lead to high blood pressure and strain on your heart.
Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation and spending time with loved ones.
Stent placement is just the beginning. Your goal now is to make lifestyle changes that keep your heart healthy for years to come.
Think of it as a team effort between you and your healthcare provider. Regular check-ups, follow-ups and a commitment to better habits will go a long way.
Dr Manjinder is an expert when it comes to cardiovascular care. If you need consultation or are looking for stent placement, don’t wait—take the next step in your recovery journey with Dr. Manjinder. Schedule your appointment and embrace a healthier today.
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