Can We Drink Alcohol After Angioplasty?
Learn whether it’s safe to drink alcohol after angioplasty. Understand the risks, guidelines, and how to protect your heart post-procedure.
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Last updated on 7th Jul, 2025
Introduction
If you or a loved one has recently undergone angioplasty, you may wonder whether it’s safe to drink alcohol again. While moderate alcohol consumption may be permissible for some, it’s important to understand the risks and guidelines to ensure a healthy recovery.
Understanding Angioplasty
Angioplasty is a medical procedure used to open blocked or narrowed coronary arteries (blood vessels supplying the heart). A tiny balloon is inflated to widen the artery, and often a stent (a small mesh tube) is placed to keep it open. This improves blood flow to the heart, reducing chest pain (angina) and lowering the risk of a heart attack.
After angioplasty, lifestyle changes—including diet, exercise, and avoiding harmful habits—are crucial for long-term heart health.
Alcohol and Heart Health: The Good and the Bad
Alcohol’s effects on the heart are complex. Some studies suggest that moderate alcohol consumption (especially red wine) may have heart-protective benefits due to antioxidants like resveratrol. However, excessive drinking can harm the heart and overall health.
Potential Benefits (In Moderation)
When consumed within medically approved limits, alcohol may offer some heart-related benefits:
May raise HDL or "good" cholesterol
Possible anti-inflammatory effects
Some observational studies suggest a possible link between moderate drinking and reduced heart disease risk.
Risks of Drinking After Angioplasty
Despite possible benefits, alcohol can have harmful effects after angioplasty, especially in excess:
May increase blood pressure, putting extra stress on the heart
Might cause weight gain, due to its high calorie content
Can interfere with medications such as blood thinners or statins
Might trigger arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats)
Can weaken heart muscles if consumed excessively
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Heart Health Advice
Can You Drink Alcohol After Angioplasty?
The answer depends on your overall health, medications, and doctor’s advice. Here’s what you should consider:
1. Consult Your Doctor First
Before resuming alcohol consumption, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider:
Some patients may be advised to avoid alcohol completely, especially if they have other conditions like liver disease or uncontrolled hypertension.
Certain heart medications like blood thinners can interact with alcohol, increasing bleeding risks.
2. Moderation is Key
If your doctor approves, limit alcohol intake to:
Men: Up to 2 standard drinks per day
Women: Up to 1 standard drink per day
What is a standard drink?
Beer: 1 can (350 ml)
Wine: 1 small glass (150 ml)
Hard liquor: 1 shot (30 ml)
3. Avoid Binge Drinking
Heavy drinking (more than 3-4 drinks in one sitting) can spike blood pressure, trigger arrhythmias, and increase heart strain.
4. Choose Heart-Healthy Options
If drinking in moderation:
Opt for red wine (contains resveratrol).
Avoid sugary cocktails or high-calorie beers.
Stay hydrated—alternate alcohol with water.
Lifestyle Tips for a Healthy Heart Post-Angioplasty
Beyond alcohol, focus on:
1. Heart-Healthy Diet
Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Reduce salt, saturated fats, and processed foods.
2. Regular Exercise
Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity like walking or swimming most days.
3. Quit Smoking
Smoking worsens heart disease—seek help if needed.
4. Manage Stress
Practice relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.
5. Take Medications as Prescribed
Never skip doses or stop medications without consulting your doctor.
When to Avoid Alcohol Completely
Avoid alcohol if you:
Have liver disease
Struggle with alcohol dependence
Take medications that interact with alcohol (ask your doctor)
Experience irregular heartbeats after drinking
Final Thoughts
While an occasional drink may be acceptable for some after angioplasty, it’s crucial to follow medical advice and avoid excess. Prioritise a heart-healthy lifestyle to keep your arteries clear and your heart strong.
If you’re unsure about alcohol consumption after angioplasty, consult a cardiologist for guidance tailored to your health. You can easily book a consultation or schedule a heart health check-up through Apollo 24|7 for expert care.
Consult Top Cardiologists
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Heart Health Advice
Dr. Pinaki Nath
Cardiologist
8 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DM Cardiology
Barasat
Diab-Eat-Ease, Barasat
Dr. Dixit Garg
Cardiologist
10 Years • MBBS , DNB (General medicine) , DNB (cardiology)
Gurugram
Smiles & Hearts, Gurugram
Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee
Cardiologist
12 Years • MBBS,MD General Medicine,DM Cardiology
Kolkata
HealthYou Speciality Clinic & Diagnostics., Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Amit. A. Bharadiya
Cardiologist
12 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DNB Cardiology
Maharashtra
Surabhi Hospital, Maharashtra, Maharashtra
Dr. Kapil Challawar
Cardiologist
7 Years • MD, DM (Cardiology)
Guwahati
Apollo Excel Care Hospita, Guwahati, Guwahati
Consult Top Cardiologists
Dr. Pinaki Nath
Cardiologist
8 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DM Cardiology
Barasat
Diab-Eat-Ease, Barasat
Dr. Dixit Garg
Cardiologist
10 Years • MBBS , DNB (General medicine) , DNB (cardiology)
Gurugram
Smiles & Hearts, Gurugram
Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee
Cardiologist
12 Years • MBBS,MD General Medicine,DM Cardiology
Kolkata
HealthYou Speciality Clinic & Diagnostics., Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Amit. A. Bharadiya
Cardiologist
12 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DNB Cardiology
Maharashtra
Surabhi Hospital, Maharashtra, Maharashtra
Dr. Kapil Challawar
Cardiologist
7 Years • MD, DM (Cardiology)
Guwahati
Apollo Excel Care Hospita, Guwahati, Guwahati
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