Angiogram of the Head and Neck

Carotid Angiogram, Cerebral Angiogram

How It Feels

You may feel a brief sting or pinch from the numbing medicine. Most people do not have pain when the catheter is in the blood vessel.

You may feel pressure in the blood vessel as the catheter is moved. Let your doctor know if you are having pain.

You will probably feel some warmth when the dye is put in. This feeling lasts only a few seconds. For some people, the feeling of heat is strong and for others it is very mild.

You may have a headache, flushing of the face, or a salty or metallic taste in your mouth after the dye is used. These feelings do not last long. Some people may feel sick to their stomach or may vomit, but this is uncommon.

After the test, you may have some tenderness and bruising at the site where the catheter was inserted.

You can drink extra fluids to pass the dye from your body unless your doctor has told you not to.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: January 19, 2007
Medical Review:	Kenneth B. Sutherland, CD, BSc, MD, FRCPC - Diagnostic Radiology Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology Christine Wendt, R.D., L.D.
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