If you or someone you know has been told they need a stent, you’re not alone. Every year, millions of people undergo stent procedures to help their hearts function better. However, understanding exactly what stents do and don’t do can be confusing. This confusion often arises from the technical nature of heart health and medical procedures, but it’s important to have a clear understanding when making decisions about your health.
What Stents Do
Stents are small, mesh-like tubes made from metal or plastic that are used to open up narrowed or blocked arteries, particularly those leading to the heart. The primary goal of a stent is to restore blood flow to the heart muscle. When arteries become clogged with fatty deposits called plaque, it can lead to a condition known as coronary artery disease. This can reduce blood flow to the heart, causing chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or other symptoms. In severe cases, it can result in a heart attack.
The process of placing a stent is called angioplasty. A cardiologist, like Dr. Sendhil Krishnan at Pacific Heart & Vascular, will insert a thin tube called a catheter into an artery, usually in the groin or wrist, and guide it to the heart. A tiny balloon at the end of the catheter is inflated to open the artery, and the stent is put in place to keep it open. The balloon is then deflated and removed, leaving the stent to hold the artery open and allow blood to flow freely.
Stents can be life-saving interventions, especially in emergency situations such as a heart attack, where time is of the essence. They help alleviate symptoms like chest pain and can improve quality of life for those with significant coronary artery disease.
What Stents Don’t Do
While stents are highly effective at relieving blockages in the arteries and improving blood flow, they are not a cure-all for heart disease. It’s important to understand that they do not eliminate the underlying causes of artery blockages, such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or smoking. Stents do not prevent future blockages from forming, nor do they reverse heart disease.
Moreover, stents do not replace the importance of lifestyle changes and medications. A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and not smoking, is crucial in managing heart health. Medications may still be necessary to control cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels, even after a stent is placed.
It’s also worth noting that not everyone with coronary artery disease will require a stent. In some cases, lifestyle changes and medications alone may be sufficient to manage the condition. Your healthcare provider will consider your specific situation, including the severity of your artery blockages and your overall health, when recommending treatment options.
What to Expect if You Need a Stent
If your doctor recommends a stent, it’s natural to have questions about what to expect. The procedure is typically done in a hospital’s catheterization lab, and it usually takes about one to two hours. You’ll be awake but sedated, meaning you’ll feel relaxed and possibly a little sleepy, but you won’t feel pain.
After the procedure, you’ll need to stay in the hospital for a short period, often overnight, so your healthcare team can monitor your recovery. Most people can return to their normal activities within a week, but your doctor will give you specific instructions about when you can return to work, exercise, and other activities.
It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s advice regarding medications after receiving a stent. You’ll likely be prescribed antiplatelet medications, such as aspirin and clopidogrel, to prevent blood clots from forming around the stent. Taking these medications as directed is essential for the stent to function properly.
Take Action for Heart Health
If you’re experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, pressure, or shortness of breath, don’t wait to seek medical attention. These symptoms could indicate a heart problem that needs immediate care. Remember, if you ever experience chest pain or pressure that feels severe or unusual, it’s important to treat it as an emergency and call 911. Early intervention can make a significant difference in outcomes for heart conditions.
At Pacific Heart & Vascular, we’re committed to helping you understand your heart health and the treatments available. If you have any concerns or symptoms, please reach out to us or your healthcare provider to discuss the best course of action for your heart health. Your heart deserves the best care possible.