9 Lifestyle Changes to Make After Angioplasty

Medically Reviewed By William C. Lloyd III, MD, FACS

Written By Linda Wasmer Andrews on November 16, 2022

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  Angioplasty Is Just the Start

  Angioplasty is a procedure to open an artery that has become blocked or narrowed by the buildup of a waxy substance called plaque. The procedure can get blood flowing freely through the artery again. But it can’t fight the ongoing buildup of plaque in arteries around your body. For that, you may need a lifestyle makeover.
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  Eat a Heart-Smart Diet

  When it comes to atherosclerosis—the buildup of plaque inside your arteries—you really are what you eat. To reduce your health risks, the American Heart Association recommends cutting saturated fat to no more than 5 to 6 percent of your total calories. Limit trans fat, sodium (salt), and added sugars, as well.
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  Put Fish on the Menu

  Not all dietary fat is bad for you. Compounds in omega-3 fatty acids—the kind of healthy fat found in fish—may actually improve heart health. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least twice a week. You might want to ask your doctor about omega-3 supplements, as well.
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  Stay Physically Active

  Being physically active helps you manage high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity—all conditions that can make atherosclerosis worse. Ask your doctor what types and amounts of exercise are safe for you. If you’re participating in cardiac rehab, your rehab team can create an exercise plan tailored to your needs.
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  Warm Up and Cool Down

  Put safety first when exercising. Warm up beforehand with at least 5 to 10 minutes of low-intensity activity. This raises your heart rate gradually, which reduces the strain on your heart. It also gets your muscles ready to work. Cool down afterward with several minutes of easy walking and gentle stretches.
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  Scale Back Your Weight

  If you’re overweight, slimming down may improve your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. You could start seeing health benefits after dropping as little as 5 to 10 percent of your body weight. Ask your doctor or cardiac rehab team to help you set healthy short-term and long-term weight loss goals.
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  Toss Out the Cigarettes

  Smoking can damage your blood vessels and raise your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. If you’re a smoker, giving up this habit is one of the best things you can do for your health. Call 800-QUIT-NOW for free advice and support from a trained counselor. Ask your doctor about medications that may help.
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  Tune In to Your Feelings

  Depression is more common in people with heart disease, including angioplasty patients. The link seems to be both psychological and physiological. Left untreated, depression can make heart problems worse. Pay attention to how you’re feeling. If you’re often down or disinterested in things you once enjoyed, talk with your doctor.
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  Keep Stress In Check

  Managing stress effectively can improve your overall health and well-being. It also makes it easier to stick with other healthy lifestyle changes. Learn several strategies that help you cope with stressful situations. For instance, you might take deep breaths, go for a walk, do some yoga, listen to soothing music, or call a supportive friend.
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  Get a Good Night’s Sleep

  One study showed that angioplasty patients who slept poorly had an increased risk of needing another procedure over the next four years. For sounder snoozing, stick to a regular bedtime every night, and avoid alcohol, caffeine, and big meals in the evening. If you still have trouble sleeping, discuss the problem with your doctor.

9 Lifestyle Changes to Make After Angioplasty

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