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Chest Pain After Angioplasty

Chest pain after angioplasty may occur for various reasons. Learn what's normal, when it signals a problem, and how to manage post-procedure discomfort.

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Last updated on 7th Jul, 2025

Introduction

If you or a loved one has recently undergone angioplasty, experiencing chest pain afterwards can be worrying. While angioplasty is a common and effective procedure to open blocked heart arteries, some patients may still feel discomfort in the chest. This article explains why chest pain may occur after angioplasty, what it means, and how to manage it effectively.

Why Does Chest Pain Occur After Angioplasty?

Angioplasty is a procedure where a small balloon or stent is placed in a narrowed or blocked artery to improve blood flow to the heart. While it helps reduce chest pain (angina) caused by blockages, some patients may still experience discomfort afterwards. Here are possible reasons:

1. Normal Healing Process: The artery may be irritated after stent placement, leading to mild soreness or discomfort.

2. Muscle or Rib Pain: Sometimes, lying still during the procedure can cause muscle strain or rib discomfort, which may feel like chest pain.

3. Stent-Related Issues: Rarely, the stent may not expand fully or develop a small clot, causing pain.

Consult Top Cardiologists For More Reasons

Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee, Cardiologist

Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee

Cardiologist

12 Years • MBBS,MD General Medicine,DM Cardiology

Kolkata

HealthYou Speciality Clinic & Diagnostics., Kolkata

recommendation

90%

(25+ Patients)

1100

1100

No Booking Fees

Dr. Dixit Garg, Cardiologist

Dr. Dixit Garg

Cardiologist

10 Years • MBBS , DNB (General medicine) , DNB (cardiology)

Gurugram

Smiles & Hearts, Gurugram

800

No Booking Fees

4. New or Residual Blockages: If other arteries are still narrowed, they may cause angina-like pain.

5. Heart Spasms (Coronary Artery Spasm): Some people experience temporary tightening of heart arteries, leading to pain.

When Should You Be Concerned?

Not all chest pain after angioplasty is serious, but some signs require immediate medical attention. Seek help if you experience:

  • Severe, crushing, or pressure-like chest pain similar to a heart attack

  • Pain spreading to the jaw, neck, shoulders, or arms

  • Shortness of breath, dizziness, or sweating

  • Pain lasting more than 15-20 minutes

  • Irregular heartbeat or fainting

If these symptoms occur, call emergency services or visit the nearest hospital immediately.

Managing Chest Pain After Angioplasty

If your doctor confirms that the pain is not due to a serious complication, here are some ways to manage it:

1. Follow Your Medication Plan

  • Take prescribed blood thinners like aspirin or clopidogrel to prevent clots.

  • Use nitroglycerin for sudden chest pain relief.

  • Manage blood pressure and cholesterol with medications as advised.

2. Adopt a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle

  • Eat a balanced diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid excess salt, sugar, and fried foods.

  • Exercise regularly: Walking, light jogging, or cardiac rehab exercises help strengthen the heart.

  • Quit smoking: Smoking worsens heart disease and increases the risk of complications.

  • Manage stress: Practice deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to reduce anxiety.

3. Monitor Your Symptoms

  • Keep a diary of chest pain episodes, noting when they occur and what triggers them.

  • Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor.

4. Avoid Overexertion

Gradually return to daily activities but avoid heavy lifting or intense workouts without medical clearance.

When to Follow Up with Your Doctor?

Even if the pain is mild, it’s important to discuss it with your cardiologist. Schedule a follow-up if:

  • Pain persists despite rest and medications.

  • You notice an increasing frequency or intensity of discomfort.

  • You have concerns about recovery or medication side effects.

At Apollo 24|7, you can easily book a consultation with a cardiologist for personalised advice and reassurance.

Conclusion

Chest pain after angioplasty can be unsettling, but it doesn’t always mean something serious. Understanding the possible causes and knowing when to seek help can ease anxiety. By following medical advice, maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle, and staying in touch with your doctor, you can recover smoothly and reduce future risks.

If you have concerns about chest pain after angioplasty, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional. Apollo 24|7 offers expert cardiology consultations and support—book an appointment today for peace of mind.

Consult Top Cardiologists

Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee, Cardiologist

Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee

Cardiologist

12 Years • MBBS,MD General Medicine,DM Cardiology

Kolkata

HealthYou Speciality Clinic & Diagnostics., Kolkata

recommendation

90%

(25+ Patients)

1100

1100

No Booking Fees

Dr. Dixit Garg, Cardiologist

Dr. Dixit Garg

Cardiologist

10 Years • MBBS , DNB (General medicine) , DNB (cardiology)

Gurugram

Smiles & Hearts, Gurugram

800

No Booking Fees

Consult Top Cardiologists For More Reasons

Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee, Cardiologist

Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee

Cardiologist

12 Years • MBBS,MD General Medicine,DM Cardiology

Kolkata

HealthYou Speciality Clinic & Diagnostics., Kolkata

recommendation

90%

(25+ Patients)

1100

1100

No Booking Fees

Dr. Dixit Garg, Cardiologist

Dr. Dixit Garg

Cardiologist

10 Years • MBBS , DNB (General medicine) , DNB (cardiology)

Gurugram

Smiles & Hearts, Gurugram

800

No Booking Fees

Dr. Pinaki Nath, Cardiologist

Dr. Pinaki Nath

Cardiologist

8 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DM Cardiology

Barasat

Diab-Eat-Ease, Barasat

900

Dr. Amit. A. Bharadiya, Cardiologist

Dr. Amit. A. Bharadiya

Cardiologist

12 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DNB Cardiology, FSCAI

Maharashtra

Surabhi Hospital, Maharashtra, Maharashtra

1100

90 Cashback

Dr. Mangesh Danej, Cardiologist

Dr. Mangesh Danej

Cardiologist

8 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DNB (Cardiology)

Pune

Dr Danej clinic, Pune

recommendation

98%

(375+ Patients)

800

No Booking Fees

Consult Top Cardiologists

Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee, Cardiologist

Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee

Cardiologist

12 Years • MBBS,MD General Medicine,DM Cardiology

Kolkata

HealthYou Speciality Clinic & Diagnostics., Kolkata

recommendation

90%

(25+ Patients)

1100

1100

No Booking Fees

Dr. Dixit Garg, Cardiologist

Dr. Dixit Garg

Cardiologist

10 Years • MBBS , DNB (General medicine) , DNB (cardiology)

Gurugram

Smiles & Hearts, Gurugram

800

No Booking Fees

Dr. Pinaki Nath, Cardiologist

Dr. Pinaki Nath

Cardiologist

8 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DM Cardiology

Barasat

Diab-Eat-Ease, Barasat

900

Dr. Amit. A. Bharadiya, Cardiologist

Dr. Amit. A. Bharadiya

Cardiologist

12 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DNB Cardiology, FSCAI

Maharashtra

Surabhi Hospital, Maharashtra, Maharashtra

1100

90 Cashback

Dr. Mangesh Danej, Cardiologist

Dr. Mangesh Danej

Cardiologist

8 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DNB (Cardiology)

Pune

Dr Danej clinic, Pune

recommendation

98%

(375+ Patients)

800

No Booking Fees

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