Hi Peter
I see you’ve had some helpful responses from other MH members, I’ll add a few ‘tips’ for your consideration.
From my experience the first 24 hours was really unpleasant, and things start getting better steadily from there.
The sternum precautions in recovery make some ordinary movements and tasks challenging, and you’ll be sore early on. Comfortable cotton shirts that button down the front make dressing that much easier, rather than a pullover. You’ll also need help sitting back up after lying down, I found a pillow wedge helpful both by making it easier to sit up without using arms, and it was more comfortable than lying straight down on my back - comfortable side sleeping took several months for me.
They’ll most likely tell you to continue with the breathing exercises to keep lungs clear and recommend getting up for short walks right away. Best to just do it, you won’t regret it. Some folks suggested a chair for the shower at least at first, you may not need it though.
They will probably give you a pillow to hug for when you cough sneeze or sit up/lay down, those are good to have with you for a while and to place between your healing chest and a passenger seatbelt.
Cardiac rehab as soon as your doctor gives the ok, this is very helpful in recovery.
You’re going to sleep A LOT after being released - I set some personal records that first week.
Mostly though you should know the recovery will likely be way better than you’re expecting, of course everyone is different, but for me I started feeling pretty good the first week home with sleep and getting an appetite back.
Catch up on some reading, watch some tv, have visitors stop by, allow yourself to be selfish for a few weeks and accept the help your loved ones offer.
Original Message------
I'm headed for surgery to fix my bicuspid aortic valve and aortic aneurysm on April 29. A few former patients have told me that the first few days to a week after the surgery are quite painful. Does anyone have tips for getting through this period? Thanks so much.
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Peter Eglinton
Portland ME
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