What to ask Dr. Shoaib Sarwar Hashmi for angiography?

Angiography is a medical test that helps doctors see how blood flows through your arteries and veins. It is often used to check for blockages, narrowing, or other problems in the heart or blood vessels.

When you are preparing for angiography, it is natural to feel nervous and unsure about what to ask your doctor. Knowing the right questions can help you feel more confident, understand the procedure better, and make safer choices.

In this guide, we will cover the most important questions you should ask Dr. Shoaib Sarwar Hashmi before, during, and after angiography. This guide is written in a clear and simple way, suitable for a 12th-grade audience, and it includes practical details to help you prepare well.

Angiography: What It Is and Why It Matters

Angiography is a type of imaging test. It uses a special dye (contrast material) and X-rays to see inside your blood vessels. Doctors use angiography to diagnose problems such as:

• Blocked or narrowed arteries

• Heart disease

• Blood clots

• Aneurysms

• Vascular malformations

The test helps doctors plan treatment, including medication, stenting, or surgery. Angiography can also help doctors decide whether you need a heart bypass or other procedures.

Why You Need to Ask Questions

Many patients feel overwhelmed before angiography. This is normal. However, asking questions helps you:

• Understand the purpose of the test

• Know the risks and benefits

• Prepare correctly

• Reduce anxiety

• Make better decisions about your health

When you speak with Dr. Shoaib Sarwar Hashmi, make sure you ask all the necessary questions. Do not hesitate, even if you feel embarrassed or shy.

Before the Procedure: Questions to Ask

1. Why Do I Need Angiography?

This is the most basic and important question. You should know the exact reason for the test. Ask:

• What is the main problem we are trying to find?

• Are there other tests we could do instead?

• How urgent is this test?

2. What Type of Angiography Will I Have?

There are different types of angiography. You should know which one you will undergo. Ask:

• Is it coronary angiography (for heart arteries)?

• Is it peripheral angiography (for legs or arms)?

• Is it cerebral angiography (for brain vessels)?

3. What Are the Risks and Side Effects?

Angiography is usually safe, but it has risks. You should understand them clearly. Ask:

• What are the common risks?

• What serious complications could occur?

• What signs should I watch for after the test?

4. Will I Need Sedation or Anesthesia?

Some patients receive mild sedation, while others might need general anesthesia. Ask:

• Will I be awake during the test?

• Will I feel pain or discomfort?

• What type of sedation will be used?

5. How Should I Prepare?

Preparation is important for a successful test. Ask:

• Do I need to fast before the procedure?

• Can I take my medicines?

• Should I stop blood thinners?

• What about diabetes medicines?

6. What Happens If I Have Allergies?

The dye used in angiography may cause allergies. Ask:

• Do I need an allergy test before the procedure?

• What if I am allergic to iodine?

• Are there alternative contrast materials?

7. How Long Will the Procedure Take?

Knowing the time helps you plan your day. Ask:

• How long will the angiography last?

• How long will I stay in the hospital?

• When can I go home?

8. Will I Need a Stent or Surgery?

Sometimes angiography reveals blockages that need immediate treatment. Ask:

• Could you treat the blockage during the same procedure?

• Will I need a stent or angioplasty?

• If surgery is needed, what are the options?

Questions About the Procedure Itself

9. What Happens Step by Step?

Knowing the steps helps reduce fear. Ask:

• What happens when I arrive at the hospital?

• What will you do first?

• How will you insert the catheter?

• Will it be through the wrist or groin?

10. Will I Feel Pain During the Procedure?

Many patients worry about pain. Ask:

• Will I feel the catheter insertion?

• Will the dye cause discomfort?

• What if I feel pain?

11. How Will You Monitor Me During the Test?

Safety is a priority. Ask:

• Will my heart rate and blood pressure be monitored?

• Will you monitor my oxygen levels?

• What if there is an emergency?

12. What Happens If You Find a Blockage?

This is a key question. Ask:

• Will you treat the blockage immediately?

• What are the risks of immediate treatment?

• Will I need another procedure later?

13. Will I Need a Blood Transfusion?

This is not common, but it can happen. Ask:

• What is the risk of bleeding?

• What happens if bleeding occurs?

• Will I need a transfusion?

14. What Should I Expect During Recovery?

Recovery time matters for planning. Ask:

• How long will I stay in bed after the test?

• Can I walk after the procedure?

• When can I return to work?

Questions About Risks and Complications

15. What Are the Most Common Complications?

Knowing the risks helps you prepare. Ask:

• What are the most common side effects?

• What complications can happen immediately?

• What complications can occur later?

16. What Are the Signs of a Problem After the Test?

You should know when to seek medical help. Ask:

• What symptoms require emergency care?

• What should I do if I feel chest pain?

• What if I notice swelling or bleeding?

17. Can Angiography Cause Kidney Damage?

The dye used can affect kidneys. Ask:

• Is my kidney function safe for this test?

• Do I need extra fluids?

• Should I get a kidney function test before the procedure?

18. What Are the Risks for My Age Group?

Risks vary by age. Ask:

• Are there special risks for older patients?

• What about young patients?

• Does my age affect the success rate?

19. What About Radiation Exposure?

Angiography uses X-rays. Ask:

• How much radiation will I receive?

• Is it safe for me?

• Are there ways to reduce exposure?

Questions About Results

20. When Will I Get the Results?

Results timing is important. Ask:

• When will you discuss the results with me?

• Will I get a report immediately?

• How long will it take for the full report?

21. What Do the Results Mean?

You should understand the findings. Ask:

• What does a blockage mean?

• What is a “normal” result?

• What is a “mild” or “severe” blockage?

22. Will You Explain the Angiography Images?

Angiography images can be confusing. Ask:

• Can you show me the images?

• Can you explain what they show?

• Can you compare them to normal images?

23. Will I Need Follow-Up Tests?

Follow-up is important for long-term care. Ask:

• Will I need another angiography later?

• Do I need an ECG or stress test?

• Do I need an echocardiogram?

24. What Is the Treatment Plan After Angiography?

The treatment plan is the most important outcome. Ask:

• What is the next step?

• Do I need medication?

• Will I need lifestyle changes?

Questions About Medication and Lifestyle

25. Will I Need Blood Thinners?

Many patients need blood thinners after angiography. Ask:

• Will I need aspirin or clopidogrel?

• How long will I take them?

• What are the side effects?

26. What Lifestyle Changes Should I Make?

Lifestyle changes can improve results. Ask:

• Should I change my diet?

• Do I need to exercise?

• How can I reduce risk factors like smoking or stress?

27. What Diet Is Best After Angiography?

Diet plays a major role in heart health. Ask:

• What foods should I avoid?

• What foods should I eat more of?

• Should I reduce salt or sugar?

28. How Often Should I Have Checkups?

Regular checkups help prevent problems. Ask:

• How often should I visit the clinic?

• What tests should I repeat?

• How can I monitor my heart health at home?

Questions About Emergency Situations

29. What Should I Do If I Have Chest Pain?

Chest pain can be serious. Ask:

• What should I do if chest pain occurs after the procedure?

• Should I call emergency services?

• What symptoms require urgent care?

30. What If I Have Shortness of Breath?

Shortness of breath can signal a problem. Ask:

• Is it normal after angiography?

• What is normal recovery breathing?

• When should I seek help?

31. What If I Have Bleeding or Swelling?

Bleeding is a major concern. Ask:

• How do I treat bleeding at the catheter site?

• What is normal swelling?

• When should I contact the hospital?

Questions About Costs and Insurance

32. What Is the Cost of Angiography?

Cost is important for many patients. Ask:

• What is the estimated cost?

• Does insurance cover it?

• Are there any extra charges?

33. What Are the Costs of Treatment After Angiography?

Treatment can be expensive. Ask:

• What are the costs of stenting or surgery?

• Are there options for financial support?

• Can I get a detailed cost breakdown?

34. Can I Get a Second Opinion?

It is okay to seek a second opinion. Ask:

• Is it possible to get a second opinion?

• Can you recommend another specialist?

• Will you share my report with another doctor?

Questions for Family Members

35. Can a Family Member Be Present During the Consultation?

Family support is important. Ask:

• Can my family member attend the discussion?

• Can they ask questions too?

• Can they help me understand the results?

36. Will You Provide Written Instructions?

Written instructions help with recovery. Ask:

• Will you give me written discharge instructions?

• Can I have a copy of the report?

• Will you provide emergency contact details?

What to Ask After the Procedure

37. What Is the Expected Recovery Timeline?

Knowing the timeline helps you plan. Ask:

• When can I return to normal activities?

• When can I drive?

• When can I exercise?

38. What Are the Signs of Infection?

Infection is rare but possible. Ask:

• What are the symptoms of infection?

• What should I do if I see redness or fever?

• Do I need antibiotics?

39. How Should I Care for the Catheter Site?

Proper care prevents complications. Ask:

• How do I clean the site?

• Can I take a shower?

• Should I avoid lifting heavy objects?

40. What Is the Long-Term Plan?

Long-term planning is vital. Ask:

• What changes should I make in my lifestyle?

• How often should I follow up?

• What is the long-term treatment goal?

Conclusion

Angiography is a major medical test that can save your life by identifying blockages and serious blood vessel problems. When you are preparing for angiography, it is very important to ask the right questions. A clear understanding of the procedure, risks, results, and recovery can help you feel confident and safe.

Always remember that your health is your responsibility. Ask all the questions you need to understand the process completely. Whether you are worried about pain, risks, costs, or recovery, a good doctor like Dr. Shoaib Sarwar Hashmi will answer your questions and guide you through the entire process.

When you know what to ask, you can make informed decisions, reduce anxiety, and improve your chances of a successful outcome. Your health is your priority, and asking the right questions is the first step toward a better future.