Can angioplasty help in maintaining heart function?

Question

Hello doctor,

I experience breathlessness while walking or climbing stairs, occasional chest congestion, and difficulty sleeping. I am diabetic and take insulin twice a day. Please find the attached reports for my ECG, echocardiogram, and angiography. Is angioplasty necessary? Can the blockage be managed with medication alone?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have reviewed the reports (attachment removed to protect patient identity). Yes, you should undergo angioplasty because you are experiencing symptoms during exertion. The ECG (electrocardiogram) changes suggest a deficiency in blood supply, and the blockage is significant at 80 percent. Currently, your heart function is normal, so to maintain it, you should proceed with angioplasty. Otherwise, I recommend following a healthy lifestyle, which includes the following:

Avoid fatty, oily, and high-calorie foods.
Follow a low-salt diet and monitor your blood pressure regularly; it should not consistently exceed 140/90 mmHg.
Engage in regular exercise, such as brisk walking or jogging, for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week, according to your ability.
Consume plenty of green leafy vegetables and fruits, and include fish in your diet once or twice a week while avoiding meat.
Avoid smoking and alcohol if applicable.

I hope this information helps.

Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions.