Catheter Ablation: What to Expect at Home

You had a catheter ablation to try to correct a heart rhythm problem. While you may have minor swelling or bruising at the insertion site for 3 to 4 weeks, following these steps will help you recover safely.

General Recovery

  • Activity Level: Stick to light activities. No strenuous exercise until cleared by your doctor.
  • Healing Time: Each person recovers at a different pace, but most site soreness resolves within a month.
  • Site Care: You may notice a small lump or bruise where the catheter went in; this is normal.

How to Care for Yourself

Activity & Safety

  • Sedative Safety: For 24 hours, do not drive, operate machinery, or sign legal documents.
  • Strain: Do not lift, pull, or push anything heavy for several days.
  • Groin Site: Avoid walking up stairs for the first 2 days if your catheter was in the groin.
  • Wrist Site: Avoid deep wrist bending and be careful pushing off chairs if the arm was used.

Diet & Medicine

  • Diet: Eat a normal, heart-healthy diet (lean meats, veggies, whole grains). Limit sodium and alcohol.
  • Fluids: Drink plenty of water unless told otherwise.
  • Blood Thinners: Follow discharge instructions from your provider for aspirin/anticoagulants. Some patients may continue post-recovery without interruption while others are given a specific time. If you are unsure, please contact your care team.
  • Prescriptions: Take all new medicines exactly as directed.

Catheter Site Care

Properly caring for the insertion site prevents infection and promotes healing:

  • Bandage: Keep the area covered for 1 to 2 days.
  • Ice: Use a cold pack (with a cloth barrier) for 10-20 minutes to reduce swelling.
  • Showering: You may shower 24-48 hours after the procedure. Pat the site dry; do not rub.
  • No Soaking: Do not take a bath or submerge the site for 1 week.

Long-term Heart Health

To support your recovery: Avoid all nicotine products (smoking/vaping), manage your weight, and stay on top of blood pressure or diabetes treatments.

Emergency: Call 911 If:

  • You pass out or lose consciousness.
  • You have chest pain, shortness of breath, or sudden weakness.
  • You show signs of a stroke (facial drooping, arm weakness, speech trouble).
  • You have heavy bleeding from the catheter site.

Call Your Doctor Now If:

  • You have a fast-growing, painful lump at the catheter site.
  • You see signs of infection (pus, red streaks, or fever).
  • Your leg or hand feels cold, tingly, or looks pale/blue.