🩺 What is an Angiogram? (Simple Explanation)
An angiogram is a test that helps doctors see your blood vessels, like arteries and veins, to find out if there is any blockage or narrowing.
🔍 How it Works:
- A doctor puts a thin tube (catheter) into a blood vessel—usually in your arm or leg.
- A special dye (called contrast) is injected through this tube.
- Then, doctors take X-ray images. The dye makes the blood vessels visible on the screen.
- This helps doctors find blockages, clots, or weak areas in the vessels.
❤️ Why It’s Done:
- To check for heart problems (like blocked arteries)
- To find the cause of chest pain or stroke
- To check blood flow to the brain, kidneys, or legs
🕒 How Long It Takes:
Usually 30 minutes to 1 hour
😌 Is it Painful?
No. You may feel a small pinch or warm feeling from the dye, but it’s not painful. Local anesthesia is used.
🌟 In Short:
Angiogram is like a video of your blood vessels, helping doctors check if blood is flowing properly or if something is wrong.