Discharge Instructions for Carotid Artery Stenting
When you get home:
Take prescribed antiplatelet medications as directed. This is needed to prevent blood clots from forming on the stent. It is normal for these medications to cause you to bruise more easily.
Shower instead of taking tub baths for a few days.
Avoid lifting anything over 10 pounds for a few days.
Take it easy, but get back to your normal routine as much as possible.
Ask your doctor about driving, returning to work, and other activities.
When to Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor if you have any of the following problems (or go to the emergency room if your doctor’s office is closed):
Problems at the incision site, such as swelling, redness, bleeding, warmth, leaking of fluids, or increasing pain
A cold or painful leg or foot
Severe headache
Weakness or numbness in a leg or arm
Difficulty talking, or difficulty finding the words to say what you want
Change in your vision
Keeping appointments for follow-up care helps make the procedure a success.
Your Follow-Up
Within a month after the procedure, you’ll have a follow-up exam and tests. These tests may include an ultrasound and a brain function exam. Then you’ll be monitored with ultrasound or another imaging test every 6 months for 1–2 years. After that, you’ll be monitored at least every 12 months. You may also continue to take antiplatelet medication. In rare cases, the carotid can narrow again. If this happens, it can often be treated again with balloon angioplasty.
Call 911 if you have stroke symptoms:
Paralysis or weakness on one side of the body
Numbness or tingling on one side of the body
Difficulty speaking
Loss of vision in one eye
Drooping on one side of the face