The first few days
- Wrist site: keep the dressing dry for 24 hours. Avoid lifting weights or straining that hand for 2–3 days.
- Groin site: avoid climbing many stairs or heavy lifting for about a week.
- Mild bruising is common. Sudden swelling, bleeding or numbness of the hand or leg needs urgent attention.
- Start with short, gentle walks at home and increase gradually.
Your medicines — the most important part
After a stent you will take two blood-thinning (antiplatelet) medicines, usually for 6–12 months, and often one for life. They prevent a clot forming inside the stent, which can cause a sudden heart attack.
- Statins (cholesterol medicine) protect the arteries even if your cholesterol is 'normal'.
- Beta-blockers, BP and diabetes medicines must also be continued as prescribed.
- Keep an up-to-date medicine list in your wallet or phone.
Never stop your blood thinners — not even for a dental procedure or another surgery — without first speaking to your cardiologist.
Returning to normal life
- Desk work: usually after about a week following a planned angioplasty; longer after a heart attack.
- Driving: typically after one week for a planned procedure, and about four weeks after a heart attack — confirm with your doctor.
- Exercise: build up to 30 minutes of brisk walking on most days. Cardiac rehabilitation is strongly recommended.
- Travel and flying: usually safe after a few days to weeks once you are stable — ask at your follow-up visit.
Warning signs after discharge
- Chest pain or pressure similar to before
- Breathlessness at rest or while lying flat
- Fainting, a racing or very slow heartbeat
- Bleeding that does not stop, or black stools
If any of these occur, call 108 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
A stent fixes one blockage — not the disease
Coronary artery disease can affect other arteries over time. Stopping tobacco completely, controlling sugar, BP and cholesterol, eating well and staying active are what keep you out of hospital in the years ahead.
This article is for general awareness and does not replace personal medical advice. Please consult your cardiologist before changing any medicine. In an emergency, call 108.