After Angiography

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.

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AMBULATORY CARE:

Seek care immediately if:

• The wound starts bleeding and does not stop after you apply firm pressure for 10 minutes.
• The bruise where the catheter went in suddenly gets bigger.
• You have numbness or tingling in an arm or leg.
• You have any of the following signs of an allergic reaction to the contrast liquid:
  • Chest pain or trouble breathing
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Swelling of your mouth or face
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Sudden decrease in urination
  • A rash, itching, or swollen skin

Contact your healthcare provider if:

• You have pain or bleeding where the catheter was inserted.
• You have signs of an infection, such as redness and swelling at the injection site.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

What to expect after angiography:

You may have a bruise or swelling where the catheter went into your skin. The area may be sore or tender. These symptoms are normal and should go away in a few days.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Wound care:

• Keep the bandage on the catheter site for 1 day. Then you can remove the bandage. If the wound starts bleeding, apply firm pressure for 10 minutes. Use a gauze or a clean towel to apply pressure.
• Check the catheter site for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus.
• Ask when you can bathe after your procedure. Your healthcare provider may tell you to take a shower instead of a bath if the bandage is still in place. Cover the bandage and keep it dry during the shower. Pat your skin dry. Do not rub over the catheter site to dry your skin.
• Ice the area to reduce swelling, tenderness, and pain. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Wrap a towel around the ice pack or plastic bag. Apply it to the catheter site for 20 minutes every hour, or as directed.

Drink liquids as directed:

Liquids will help flush the contrast liquid out of your body. Ask how much liquid to drink after your procedure, and which liquids to drink. Your healthcare provider may tell you to drink extra liquids for 1 or 2 days after your procedure.

Activity:

For the first 12 hours, go slowly and be careful. Rest as needed. Do not climb stairs, drive, bend, or lift heavy objects. These activities may put too much pressure on the catheter site and increase your risk for bleeding. Ask your healthcare provider when you can return to your normal activities.

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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