How Long After Angioplasty Can I Drink Alcohol?
Wondering when it’s safe to drink alcohol after angioplasty? Learn what cardiologists recommend, how alcohol affects recovery, and what to watch out for.
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Last updated on 7th Jul, 2025
Introduction
If you've recently undergone angioplasty, you may have questions about when it’s safe to resume certain habits, including drinking alcohol. While moderate alcohol consumption may be acceptable for some people, it's important to understand how alcohol affects heart health and recovery after angioplasty.
Understanding Angioplasty and Recovery
Angioplasty is a procedure used to open blocked or narrowed coronary arteries (blood vessels supplying the heart). A small balloon is inflated to widen the artery, and often a stent (a tiny mesh tube) is placed to keep it open. This improves blood flow and reduces symptoms like chest pain (angina) or prevents a heart attack.
Recovery after angioplasty varies, but most people can return to normal activities within a few days to a week. However, lifestyle changes—such as quitting smoking, eating a heart-healthy diet, exercising, and limiting alcohol—are crucial for long-term heart health.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Heart Health Advice
Alcohol and Heart Health: The Risks and Benefits
Alcohol affects the heart in different ways, depending on how much and how often you drink:
1. Potential Benefits (Moderate Drinking)
In limited cases, moderate alcohol consumption—particularly red wine—may have certain cardiovascular effects.
May slightly raise HDL (good) cholesterol.
Might have mild anti-inflammatory properties due to antioxidants like resveratrol.
2. Potential Risks (Excessive Drinking)
Drinking heavily or frequently can have negative consequences, especially after a cardiac procedure like angioplasty.
High Blood Pressure: Heavy drinking raises blood pressure, increasing strain on the heart.
Weight Gain: Alcohol is high in calories and can contribute to obesity, a risk factor for heart disease.
Irregular Heartbeat: Excessive alcohol can cause arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats).
Weakening Heart Muscle: Chronic heavy drinking may lead to cardiomyopathy, a condition where the heart muscle weakens.
Interference with Medications: Alcohol can interact with blood thinners prescribed after angioplasty, increasing bleeding risk.
When Can You Drink Alcohol After Angioplasty?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are general guidelines:
1. Immediately After Angioplasty (First Few Weeks)
Your body is healing, and this is a critical period.
Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol can interfere with medications like blood thinners and slow recovery.
Follow Doctor’s Advice: Some doctors may recommend complete abstinence for the first few weeks.
2. After Initial Recovery (1-3 Months Later)
Once initial healing has taken place, your cardiologist may give more tailored advice. If approved, limit intake to 1 drink per day for women and 1-2 drinks per day for men (1 drink = 350 ml beer, 150 ml wine, or 45 ml spirits).
3. Long-Term Considerations
Even after the recovery period, alcohol should be consumed with caution.
Monitor Your Health: If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or liver issues, alcohol may need further restriction.
Avoid Binge Drinking: Even occasional heavy drinking can be harmful.
Tips for Safe Alcohol Consumption After Angioplasty
If your doctor approves moderate drinking, follow these tips:
Choose Heart-Healthy Options: Red wine (in moderation) may have slight benefits due to antioxidants.
Stay Hydrated: Drink water alongside alcohol to avoid dehydration.
Avoid Mixing with Medications: Check if alcohol interacts with your prescriptions.
Listen to Your Body: If you feel unwell (dizziness, palpitations), stop drinking and consult your doctor.
Lifestyle Changes for Better Heart Health
Beyond alcohol, focus on:
Healthy Diet: More fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and less salt/sugar.
Regular Exercise: Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity (walking, swimming) most days.
Quit Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and worsens heart disease.
Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.
When to Seek Medical Help
Contact your doctor if you experience:
Chest pain or discomfort
Shortness of breath
Irregular heartbeat
Dizziness or fainting
Conclusion
While moderate alcohol may be permissible for some after angioplasty, it’s essential to consult your doctor first. Prioritise heart-healthy habits to ensure a smooth recovery and long-term well-being.
If you have concerns about alcohol or heart health post-angioplasty, book a consultation with a cardiologist on Apollo 24|7 for personalised advice. Your heart deserves the best care!
Consult Top Cardiologists
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Heart Health Advice
Dr. Amit. A. Bharadiya
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12 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DNB Cardiology
Maharashtra
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Dr. Jayarajah Mariappan
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45 Years • MBBS, MD(GEN MEDICINE), DM(CARDIOLOGY)
Chennai
Sooriya Hospital, Chennai
Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee
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12 Years • MBBS,MD General Medicine,DM Cardiology
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Dr. M Sudhakar Rao
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8 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DM Cardiology
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Dr. Mangesh Danej
Cardiologist
8 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DNB (Cardiology)
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Dr Danej clinic, Pune
(375+ Patients)
Consult Top Cardiologists
Dr. Amit. A. Bharadiya
Cardiologist
12 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DNB Cardiology
Maharashtra
Surabhi Hospital, Maharashtra, Maharashtra
Dr. Jayarajah Mariappan
Cardiologist
45 Years • MBBS, MD(GEN MEDICINE), DM(CARDIOLOGY)
Chennai
Sooriya Hospital, Chennai
Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee
Cardiologist
12 Years • MBBS,MD General Medicine,DM Cardiology
Kolkata
HealthYou Speciality Clinic & Diagnostics., Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. M Sudhakar Rao
Cardiologist
8 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DM Cardiology
Bengaluru
UMC, Kormangla, Bengaluru
Dr. Mangesh Danej
Cardiologist
8 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DNB (Cardiology)
Pune
Dr Danej clinic, Pune
(375+ Patients)
