Mended Hearts Open Forum

Has anyone else noticed increased anxiety after open heart surgery? Here's the reason for my question: I went for an MRI on Saturday for a non-heart related issue. I've had several MRIs in the past and have never had an issue with claustrophobia. However, this weekend I had to have them take me out of the machine 5 minutes after they got started. When I got in the machine I suddenly started having a panic attack, which I've never had before, and couldn't finish the test. Now I'll have to reschedule the MRI after I've spoken to my doctor and gotten him to write a script for some Valium or Xanax that I can use to help me relax before I go back in the machine again.

It occurred to me afterwards that since my open heart surgery last year I've been dealing with a lot more anxiety in general. I've always been a very upbeat and positive person and most things don't worry me too much but since the surgery I worry a lot more than I used to. Is it just me or have others noticed this after their surgery? Any suggestions on how to deal with this? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, everyone!

Brett in Sarasota, FL


------------------------------
Brett Temple
Project Manager
Sarasota FL
------------------------------

------Original Message------

Has anyone else noticed increased anxiety after open heart surgery? Here's the reason for my question: I went for an MRI on Saturday for a non-heart related issue. I've had several MRIs in the past and have never had an issue with claustrophobia. However, this weekend I had to have them take me out of the machine 5 minutes after they got started. When I got in the machine I suddenly started having a panic attack, which I've never had before, and couldn't finish the test. Now I'll have to reschedule the MRI after I've spoken to my doctor and gotten him to write a script for some Valium or Xanax that I can use to help me relax before I go back in the machine again.

It occurred to me afterwards that since my open heart surgery last year I've been dealing with a lot more anxiety in general. I've always been a very upbeat and positive person and most things don't worry me too much but since the surgery I worry a lot more than I used to. Is it just me or have others noticed this after their surgery? Any suggestions on how to deal with this? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, everyone!

Brett in Sarasota, FL


------------------------------
Brett Temple
Project Manager
Sarasota FL
------------------------------

Hi Brett,
I wanted to let you know you're not alone. I too developed  anxieties, fears and mild depression after my surgery (I'm ten months out now). I've always been a pretty laid back, happy person so I couldn't really understand why I was feeling this way. I didn't want to talk with family or friends about how I was feeling. One of the nurses at rehab suggested I see a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I've already had about ten sessions with her and I can tell you it has helped me a lot!!! I hope this helps you.
Best of luck to you on your continued recover, especially with this virus going around. (It has given me a whole new anxiety LOL!)
Stay safe and healthy!
Michelle

------------------------------
michelle leverett
Ridgecrest CA
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-17-2020 13:12
From: mary hedtke
Subject: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Hi Brett, 

My anxiety came out of no where after my OHS.  I freaked out about so many things, I felt like a small child most times of the day or night.  

Once I found this Mended Heart Forum, I found that the OHS had a lot to do with post surgical anxiety and every day it now gets better with continued posting and reading posts here at the Forum.  

Some of us even consider that the OHS may have caused a PTSD type of anxiety that was not present before the surgery.  I am sure that other members will have info for you and will post soon

Mary H

Original Message------

Has anyone else noticed increased anxiety after open heart surgery? Here's the reason for my question: I went for an MRI on Saturday for a non-heart related issue. I've had several MRIs in the past and have never had an issue with claustrophobia. However, this weekend I had to have them take me out of the machine 5 minutes after they got started. When I got in the machine I suddenly started having a panic attack, which I've never had before, and couldn't finish the test. Now I'll have to reschedule the MRI after I've spoken to my doctor and gotten him to write a script for some Valium or Xanax that I can use to help me relax before I go back in the machine again.

It occurred to me afterwards that since my open heart surgery last year I've been dealing with a lot more anxiety in general. I've always been a very upbeat and positive person and most things don't worry me too much but since the surgery I worry a lot more than I used to. Is it just me or have others noticed this after their surgery? Any suggestions on how to deal with this? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, everyone!

Brett in Sarasota, FL


------------------------------
Brett Temple
Project Manager
Sarasota FL
------------------------------

------Original Message------

------Original Message------

------Original Message------

7 years ago i gad open heart surgery with complications  that hD ne in a coma for 10 days .  If anyone should have PTSD, it should br me. Fortunately the doctor had me on anti depressants and anti anxiety medicines for severL months afterwards. It doesnt help that the medical staff asks you "do you gave anxiety? Fo you want to hurt yourself? Etc"  
My husband suffered more than me as he  feared for my life,   MendedHearts  hearts meetings and friendships have been helpful to him especially even now years later.  

If you are having issues, tell your doctors honestly. They will prescribe help for you 

------------------------------
Marilyn Rosenhouse
Dallas TX
(214) 850-0219
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-17-2020 13:12
From: mary hedtke
Subject: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Hi Brett, 

My anxiety came out of no where after my OHS.  I freaked out about so many things, I felt like a small child most times of the day or night.  

Once I found this Mended Heart Forum, I found that the OHS had a lot to do with post surgical anxiety and every day it now gets better with continued posting and reading posts here at the Forum.  

Some of us even consider that the OHS may have caused a PTSD type of anxiety that was not present before the surgery.  I am sure that other members will have info for you and will post soon

Mary H

Original Message------

Has anyone else noticed increased anxiety after open heart surgery? Here's the reason for my question: I went for an MRI on Saturday for a non-heart related issue. I've had several MRIs in the past and have never had an issue with claustrophobia. However, this weekend I had to have them take me out of the machine 5 minutes after they got started. When I got in the machine I suddenly started having a panic attack, which I've never had before, and couldn't finish the test. Now I'll have to reschedule the MRI after I've spoken to my doctor and gotten him to write a script for some Valium or Xanax that I can use to help me relax before I go back in the machine again.

It occurred to me afterwards that since my open heart surgery last year I've been dealing with a lot more anxiety in general. I've always been a very upbeat and positive person and most things don't worry me too much but since the surgery I worry a lot more than I used to. Is it just me or have others noticed this after their surgery? Any suggestions on how to deal with this? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, everyone!

Brett in Sarasota, FL


------------------------------
Brett Temple
Project Manager
Sarasota FL
------------------------------

Hi,
Their anxiety tends to enhance pain." Pain and anxiety are the most common problems for patients following coronary artery bypass grafting or valve replacement. The pain is caused by the stimulation of peripheral nerve endings in the muscles and tissue that have been cut and traumatized during surgery.
Healing time will take at least two to three months. You can expect to have good and bad days during this time and you may feel tired, irritable, anxious, depressed or simply not quite yourself for a few weeks. Don't be worried if you express your moods and feelings more than before.

Expressive Therapy For Depression



------------------------------
supermax sharma
IN
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-17-2020 13:12
From: mary hedtke
Subject: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Hi Brett, 

My anxiety came out of no where after my OHS.  I freaked out about so many things, I felt like a small child most times of the day or night.  

Once I found this Mended Heart Forum, I found that the OHS had a lot to do with post surgical anxiety and every day it now gets better with continued posting and reading posts here at the Forum.  

Some of us even consider that the OHS may have caused a PTSD type of anxiety that was not present before the surgery.  I am sure that other members will have info for you and will post soon

Mary H

Original Message------

Has anyone else noticed increased anxiety after open heart surgery? Here's the reason for my question: I went for an MRI on Saturday for a non-heart related issue. I've had several MRIs in the past and have never had an issue with claustrophobia. However, this weekend I had to have them take me out of the machine 5 minutes after they got started. When I got in the machine I suddenly started having a panic attack, which I've never had before, and couldn't finish the test. Now I'll have to reschedule the MRI after I've spoken to my doctor and gotten him to write a script for some Valium or Xanax that I can use to help me relax before I go back in the machine again.

It occurred to me afterwards that since my open heart surgery last year I've been dealing with a lot more anxiety in general. I've always been a very upbeat and positive person and most things don't worry me too much but since the surgery I worry a lot more than I used to. Is it just me or have others noticed this after their surgery? Any suggestions on how to deal with this? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, everyone!

Brett in Sarasota, FL


------------------------------
Brett Temple
Project Manager
Sarasota FL
------------------------------

Please don’t make the mistake of “blaming“ Open Heart Surgery as the cause for post operative pain and anxiety .
Number 1. Almost all surgery of all kinds has recovery pain involved. Muscles and nerves and skin cuts etc take time to heal. Modern techniques have reduced the amount and time of recovery pain.
Number 2. The Anxiety, ( and the PTSD) let’s not forget, comes from the fact that we needed to repair our physically BROKEN damaged HEART. Any of the multitude of heart conditions requiring surgery, medicines and other interventions are frightening.
It is Scary facing the fact that we were vulnerable, that our life was at risk . It is often a dire and unexpected emergency situation. The surgery goals are to SAVE our lives.
Number 3. Thank you to the people who created and continue Mended Hearts. Its an organization that helps all of us ( my husband and me especially) recover from the trauma of The heart attack and other heart conditions ( many are chronic). We are able to educate, comfort, and share with experiences.
Number 4 .Briefly: My story starts with a scheduled mitrovalve surgery that turned into Cardiogenic shock ( simply put “death on the table”). The doctors, nurses, support and prayers of family and friends etc saved my life. I didn’t Blame the operations and surgeons for this. The medical staff saved my life twice. The event was “newsworthy“ . Someone who knew my story approached me : their doctors recommended mitrovalve surgery for them but they were afraid because of what happened to me. I tell them to have the surgery. Without the initial surgery, i would have died soon anyway from my damaged “Broken Heart”. The surgery, painful, scary, etc saved my life … 9 years ago,61 years old, and 3 more grandchildren since then .
( sorry, not so brief after all)
5. Please do all techniques that are recommended to heal from your surgery: cardiotheraphy, medications, exercise, REST, prayers, express gratitude to all who help you, Time ( thats why we are called “patients “ because we need Patience )


Marilyn B. Rosenhouse
Mobile: (214)850-0655


Original Message:
Sent: 6/22/2021 12:15:00 AM
From: supermax sharma
Subject: RE: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Hi,
Their anxiety tends to enhance pain." Pain and anxiety are the most common problems for patients following coronary artery bypass grafting or valve replacement. The pain is caused by the stimulation of peripheral nerve endings in the muscles and tissue that have been cut and traumatized during surgery.
Healing time will take at least two to three months. You can expect to have good and bad days during this time and you may feel tired, irritable, anxious, depressed or simply not quite yourself for a few weeks. Don't be worried if you express your moods and feelings more than before.

Expressive Therapy For Depression



------------------------------
supermax sharma
IN
------------------------------

i dont think there is a relation between open heart surgery and anxiety but if you i agree with that the green xanax bars 3mg is good to get rid of anxiety.

------------------------------
elvin chard
Angola LA
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 3/18/2021 9:24:00 AM
From: elvin chard
Subject: RE: Anxiety after open heart surgery

i dont think there is a relation between open heart surgery and anxiety but if you i agree with that the green xanax bars 3mg is good to get rid of anxiety.

------------------------------
elvin chard
Angola LA
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 3/18/2021 11:24:00 AM
From: Marilyn Rosenhouse
Subject: RE: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Dear Brett and Elvin

Of course, its natural to have anxiety after any major operation especially open heart surgery!  Many are afraid to do anything to reinjure their hearts!  thats one reason we are told to reduce STRESS ( since there is always stress ??? how to that is a whole new lifestyle). My doctor automatically prescribed anti anxiety medication during my recovery period.   His cocktail of anti anxiety, anti-depression,  and pain meds kept me happy during the recovery period ( 3 weeks in hospital, 3 weeks in rehab, one month at home, 12 weeks out patient rehab).  

Please take advantage of medications, support of friends and relatives and PRAYERS 

Time will help too. 

Marilyn B. Rosenhouse

Mobile: (214)850-0655

Elvin ~ Depression and it's ugly step child anxiety do indeed go hand in hand with open heart surgery as Marilyn rightly pointed out. It is one of those many minor details doctors rarely mention to us, guess they're afraid we'll back out and they'll lose the revenue. The severity and duration vary by individual and probably relates to our personalities ( ie how much we drink of the grape).

------------------------------
Warren
TucsonAZ
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-18-2021 09:23
From: elvin chard
Subject: Anxiety after open heart surgery

i dont think there is a relation between open heart surgery and anxiety but if you i agree with that the green xanax bars 3mg is good to get rid of anxiety.

------------------------------
elvin chard
Angola LA
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 3/18/2021 9:24:00 AM
From: elvin chard
Subject: RE: Anxiety after open heart surgery

i dont think there is a relation between open heart surgery and anxiety but if you i agree with that the green xanax bars 3mg is good to get rid of anxiety.

------------------------------
elvin chard
Angola LA
------------------------------

Good morning, Brett
I had full-blown PTSD after my complicated rescue from an extensive "widow-maker" obstruction in my left main artery.

Anxiety, yes, as well as flashbacks, hypervigilence, fear of the dark, and feelings of dread.  I was afraid to go to bed because I could picture the EMTs at the foot of my bed setting up their equipment and then carrying me over their heads downstairs to the ambulance.  Then there was the concurrent fear of contracting COVID in the hospital as well as the isolation/loneliness of no visitor policies in two hospitals in two cities. On my own.

Nurse friends connected me to a nurse therapist retired from UT-Austin and we met on Zoom for about 6 weeks.  She helped me get to a better place and to develop some specific coping strategies. Seven months later I still have bouts of anxiety about the future.  Prayer helps me put it all into perspective.

Knowing that anxiety is common may be all the reality testing you need to do.  Don't hesitate to ask for counseling if your anxiety is top of mind to the extent you want to do something about it. Big deal surgeries requite a lot of "mental/emotional processing" in the months following.  OHS has so many dimensions....you're a survivor. Celebrate that.  Celebrate the opportunities every day to heal in small ways.  Take naps!  It's ok to just sit and stare out the window as you process your memories and current concerns.

Stay in touch and let us know how you're doing.
Peace and be of good cheer
Doris

------------------------------
Doris Edwards
Retired RN
Dublin, Ohio
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 3/28/2021 9:06:00 AM
From: Doris Edwards
Subject: RE: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Good morning, Brett
I had full-blown PTSD after my complicated rescue from an extensive "widow-maker" obstruction in my left main artery.

Anxiety, yes, as well as flashbacks, hypervigilence, fear of the dark, and feelings of dread.  I was afraid to go to bed because I could picture the EMTs at the foot of my bed setting up their equipment and then carrying me over their heads downstairs to the ambulance.  Then there was the concurrent fear of contracting COVID in the hospital as well as the isolation/loneliness of no visitor policies in two hospitals in two cities. On my own.

Nurse friends connected me to a nurse therapist retired from UT-Austin and we met on Zoom for about 6 weeks.  She helped me get to a better place and to develop some specific coping strategies. Seven months later I still have bouts of anxiety about the future.  Prayer helps me put it all into perspective.

Knowing that anxiety is common may be all the reality testing you need to do.  Don't hesitate to ask for counseling if your anxiety is top of mind to the extent you want to do something about it. Big deal surgeries requite a lot of "mental/emotional processing" in the months following.  OHS has so many dimensions....you're a survivor. Celebrate that.  Celebrate the opportunities every day to heal in small ways.  Take naps!  It's ok to just sit and stare out the window as you process your memories and current concerns.

Stay in touch and let us know how you're doing.
Peace and be of good cheer
Doris

------------------------------
Doris Edwards
Retired RN
Dublin, Ohio
------------------------------

Hi Brett,
I had open heart surgery on January 12, 2021 and find that I'm anxious about my heart, my life, Covid, and pretty much everything. :(.  I have recently begun seeing a therapist who specializes in PTSD, and it's helping.  I think that open heart surgery is probably about the most traumatic thing that can happen to a person. You are not alone for sure.

Best,
Liza

------------------------------
Liza Levine
New York NY
------------------------------

Dear Lisa and Brett
it is very natural to have anxiety after open heart surgery!
I had 3 panic attacks in the months after. One was when we were on a cruise, 6 months post/op. We were supposed to go tour Grand Cayman Island and i couldn’t leave the boat dock. What, you say, a vacation a cruise after only 6 months post open heart surgery (with complications that included 10 days in medically induced coma, 3 weeks inpatient rehab to get the strength to sit up) ?!?! Yes life goes on even better !

Marilyn B. Rosenhouse
Mobile: (214)850-0655


Original Message:
Sent: 4/4/2021 1:47:00 PM
From: Liza Levine
Subject: RE: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Hi Brett,
I had open heart surgery on January 12, 2021 and find that I'm anxious about my heart, my life, Covid, and pretty much everything. :(.  I have recently begun seeing a therapist who specializes in PTSD, and it's helping.  I think that open heart surgery is probably about the most traumatic thing that can happen to a person. You are not alone for sure.

Best,
Liza

------------------------------
Liza Levine
New York NY
------------------------------

Hi Marilyn, Liza and Brett,

Marilyn, how strange it is that we had very similar post-op experiences.  I was kept in a medically induced coma on a ventilator for 13 days post surgery thanks  to ventilator induced bacterial pneumonia an antibiotic induced cdiff. I also then spent 3 weeks in a rehab hospital learning to feed myself, stand, walk and terrorize the physical therapists and attending medical staff by disarming their alarm system that alerted them when I left my wheelchair to get up and walk unsupervised.

Liza and Brett, I'm now 38 months post OHS and I have not lost my deep sense of gratitude and joy at being permitted to live the rest of my life on borrowed time.  Don't get me wrong.  Each moment if life is sweet, regardless of whether we realize it at any particular moment or not, and whether or not we characterize ourselves as living on borrowed time.  It's just that I never quite felt this ongoing sense of gratitude until I kissed the front door of my home and greeted my dog, who waited for me like Greyfriars Bobby during my long 6 week hospitalization.  

I still experience PTSD symptoms, but I don't suffer them and I'm here to tell you that anxiety and fear are not a necessary or inevitable outcome of open heart surgery.

All the best,

Ira

------------------------------
Ira Reid
Hoboken NJ
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-04-2021 14:05
From: Marilyn Rosenhouse
Subject: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Dear Lisa and Brett
it is very natural to have anxiety after open heart surgery!
I had 3 panic attacks in the months after. One was when we were on a cruise, 6 months post/op. We were supposed to go tour Grand Cayman Island and i couldn't leave the boat dock. What, you say, a vacation a cruise after only 6 months post open heart surgery (with complications that included 10 days in medically induced coma, 3 weeks inpatient rehab to get the strength to sit up) ?!?! Yes life goes on even better !

Marilyn B. Rosenhouse
Mobile: (214)850-0655



Original Message:
Sent: 4/4/2021 1:47:00 PM
From: Liza Levine
Subject: RE: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Hi Brett,
I had open heart surgery on January 12, 2021 and find that I'm anxious about my heart, my life, Covid, and pretty much everything. :(.  I have recently begun seeing a therapist who specializes in PTSD, and it's helping.  I think that open heart surgery is probably about the most traumatic thing that can happen to a person. You are not alone for sure.

Best,
Liza

------------------------------
Liza Levine
New York NY
------------------------------

Thank you, Ira.  It feels better already just reading these posts and knowing that other people have experienced similar crazy hard stuff.  
Best,
Liza

------------------------------
Liza Levine
New York NY
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-05-2021 06:14
From: Ira Reid
Subject: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Hi Marilyn, Liza and Brett,

Marilyn, how strange it is that we had very similar post-op experiences.  I was kept in a medically induced coma on a ventilator for 13 days post surgery thanks  to ventilator induced bacterial pneumonia an antibiotic induced cdiff. I also then spent 3 weeks in a rehab hospital learning to feed myself, stand, walk and terrorize the physical therapists and attending medical staff by disarming their alarm system that alerted them when I left my wheelchair to get up and walk unsupervised.

Liza and Brett, I'm now 38 months post OHS and I have not lost my deep sense of gratitude and joy at being permitted to live the rest of my life on borrowed time.  Don't get me wrong.  Each moment if life is sweet, regardless of whether we realize it at any particular moment or not, and whether or not we characterize ourselves as living on borrowed time.  It's just that I never quite felt this ongoing sense of gratitude until I kissed the front door of my home and greeted my dog, who waited for me like Greyfriars Bobby during my long 6 week hospitalization.

I still experience PTSD symptoms, but I don't suffer them and I'm here to tell you that anxiety and fear are not a necessary or inevitable outcome of open heart surgery.

All the best,

Ira

------------------------------
Ira Reid
Hoboken NJ
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 04-04-2021 14:05
From: Marilyn Rosenhouse
Subject: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Dear Lisa and Brett
it is very natural to have anxiety after open heart surgery!
I had 3 panic attacks in the months after. One was when we were on a cruise, 6 months post/op. We were supposed to go tour Grand Cayman Island and i couldn't leave the boat dock. What, you say, a vacation a cruise after only 6 months post open heart surgery (with complications that included 10 days in medically induced coma, 3 weeks inpatient rehab to get the strength to sit up) ?!?! Yes life goes on even better !

Marilyn B. Rosenhouse
Mobile: (214)850-0655



Original Message:
Sent: 4/4/2021 1:47:00 PM
From: Liza Levine
Subject: RE: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Hi Brett,
I had open heart surgery on January 12, 2021 and find that I'm anxious about my heart, my life, Covid, and pretty much everything. :(.  I have recently begun seeing a therapist who specializes in PTSD, and it's helping.  I think that open heart surgery is probably about the most traumatic thing that can happen to a person. You are not alone for sure.

Best,
Liza

------------------------------
Liza Levine
New York NY

Hi Lisa
I'm 7 months post OHS (with complications) now and realizing that it was a life changing event which unfolds over time.  I am somewhat limited physically but I am gaining strength albeit slowly.  The anxiety and hyper vigilance have greatly lessened and I am happy every day.  I still have angina which requires NTG but now I think of taking nitro as giving my heart vessels a little boost rather than impending doom. 
You'll find your way
Best wishes
DE

------------------------------
Doris Edwards
Retired RN
Dublin, Ohio
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-05-2021 09:05
From: Liza Levine
Subject: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Thank you, Ira.  It feels better already just reading these posts and knowing that other people have experienced similar crazy hard stuff.
Best,
Liza

------------------------------
Liza Levine
New York NY
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 04-05-2021 06:14
From: Ira Reid
Subject: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Hi Marilyn, Liza and Brett,

Marilyn, how strange it is that we had very similar post-op experiences.  I was kept in a medically induced coma on a ventilator for 13 days post surgery thanks  to ventilator induced bacterial pneumonia an antibiotic induced cdiff. I also then spent 3 weeks in a rehab hospital learning to feed myself, stand, walk and terrorize the physical therapists and attending medical staff by disarming their alarm system that alerted them when I left my wheelchair to get up and walk unsupervised.

Liza and Brett, I'm now 38 months post OHS and I have not lost my deep sense of gratitude and joy at being permitted to live the rest of my life on borrowed time.  Don't get me wrong.  Each moment if life is sweet, regardless of whether we realize it at any particular moment or not, and whether or not we characterize ourselves as living on borrowed time.  It's just that I never quite felt this ongoing sense of gratitude until I kissed the front door of my home and greeted my dog, who waited for me like Greyfriars Bobby during my long 6 week hospitalization.

I still experience PTSD symptoms, but I don't suffer them and I'm here to tell you that anxiety and fear are not a necessary or inevitable outcome of open heart surgery.

All the best,

Ira

------------------------------
Ira Reid
Hoboken NJ


Original Message:
Sent: 04-04-2021 14:05
From: Marilyn Rosenhouse
Subject: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Dear Lisa and Brett
it is very natural to have anxiety after open heart surgery!
I had 3 panic attacks in the months after. One was when we were on a cruise, 6 months post/op. We were supposed to go tour Grand Cayman Island and i couldn't leave the boat dock. What, you say, a vacation a cruise after only 6 months post open heart surgery (with complications that included 10 days in medically induced coma, 3 weeks inpatient rehab to get the strength to sit up) ?!?! Yes life goes on even better !

Marilyn B. Rosenhouse
Mobile: (214)850-0655



Original Message:
Sent: 4/4/2021 1:47:00 PM
From: Liza Levine
Subject: RE: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Hi Brett,
I had open heart surgery on January 12, 2021 and find that I'm anxious about my heart, my life, Covid, and pretty much everything. :(.  I have recently begun seeing a therapist who specializes in PTSD, and it's helping.  I think that open heart surgery is probably about the most traumatic thing that can happen to a person. You are not alone for sure.

Best,
Liza

------------------------------
Liza Levine
New York NY

Experiencing psychological upheaval after a cardiac procedure is much more common than you'd think. Just talking about it with others can do wonders to help. If you answer yes to any of these questions, it may be worth contacting your GP for assessment and possible treatment.

------------------------------
Mennes Drive
New York NY
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 5/21/2021 4:27:00 AM
From: Mennes Drive
Subject: RE: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Experiencing psychological upheaval after a cardiac procedure is much more common than you'd think. Just talking about it with others can do wonders to help. If you answer yes to any of these questions, it may be worth contacting your GP for assessment and possible treatment.

------------------------------
Mennes Drive
New York NY
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 5/21/2021 2:17:00 PM
From: mary hedtke
Subject: RE: Anxiety after open heart surgery

When I did go to rehab after my surgery, they would

not discuss it personally with me.  They directed me

to my physician who told me that time would take care of

the anxiety I was going through

I did my own work then by asking general questions here

of other members and then doing work on my own with Anxiety issues.  I can say that now, I have no repercussions 

about my Surgery now after 3 years

Good luck

Mary

Yes! I have anxiety and panic attacks more so now since my surgery for mitral valve repair. 4/19/2021. The only thing the Surgeon told me was he might do the minimally invasive approach through the ribs.
I have anxiety and panic attacks normally but since the surgery it has been amplified. I get emotional very easily.
The other thing I mentioned to the doctor, after the surgery is the numbness on the right side of my chest in my armpit and down my left side. It sometimes burns. The nurse practitioner says it's normal because they had to go through many layers of tissue and nerves may have been damaged as a result. She said most of the sensation will subside in months to come. I am very grateful to them for saving my life but more info would have been nice.
The surgeon said I would spend 5 days in the hospital but I was in there for 10. I am seeking counseling and have gotten a psychiatrist to help deal with what my counselor called PTSD. It does happen. I am on psych meds to help but I think they have to up my doses.
Because of the anxiety and panic attacks my blood pressure has been high. A vicious cycle when OCD is put into the mix along with possible bipolar.
So yeah I'm a bit of a mess for now until they get this under control.
I'm still waiting for rehab. That may also help when I can start to exercise again. I was very active until COVID hit and the back in Feb my breathing became impaired....SOB.....I wasn't diagnosed until April. Virtually every doctor I saw missed the problem so now trust has also become an issue with my doctors.
SCARY STUFF.

------------------------------
Reed Palmer
------------------------------

Yes, Reed and Brett, anxiety and depression are quite common after open heart surgery, but I'm here to tell you that they are not a necessary outcome.  Meditation, counseling (group with other survivors and individual), medication all can help.  

All you really need is a change in perspective.  I was lucky.  I emerged from my OHS and a 2 week medically induced coma filled with gratitude and love for everyone who saved my life and helped me along the way.  I was like Ebenezer Scrooge after his long night with the ghosts of Christmas.  

So, everything is possible.  You have been granted a new life, a second chance.  Embrace every moment, and let the future, which doesn't exist anyway except in your mind, take care of itself.

Good luck,

Ira

------------------------------
Ira Reid
Hoboken NJ
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 06-07-2021 17:03
From: Reed Palmer
Subject: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Yes! I have anxiety and panic attacks more so now since my surgery for mitral valve repair. 4/19/2021. The only thing the Surgeon told me was he might do the minimally invasive approach through the ribs.
I have anxiety and panic attacks normally but since the surgery it has been amplified. I get emotional very easily.
The other thing I mentioned to the doctor, after the surgery is the numbness on the right side of my chest in my armpit and down my left side. It sometimes burns. The nurse practitioner says it's normal because they had to go through many layers of tissue and nerves may have been damaged as a result. She said most of the sensation will subside in months to come. I am very grateful to them for saving my life but more info would have been nice.
The surgeon said I would spend 5 days in the hospital but I was in there for 10. I am seeking counseling and have gotten a psychiatrist to help deal with what my counselor called PTSD. It does happen. I am on psych meds to help but I think they have to up my doses.
Because of the anxiety and panic attacks my blood pressure has been high. A vicious cycle when OCD is put into the mix along with possible bipolar.
So yeah I'm a bit of a mess for now until they get this under control.
I'm still waiting for rehab. That may also help when I can start to exercise again. I was very active until COVID hit and the back in Feb my breathing became impaired....SOB.....I wasn't diagnosed until April. Virtually every doctor I saw missed the problem so now trust has also become an issue with my doctors.
SCARY STUFF.

------------------------------
Reed Palmer
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 6/8/2021 6:45:00 AM
From: Ira Reid
Subject: RE: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Yes, Reed and Brett, anxiety and depression are quite common after open heart surgery, but I'm here to tell you that they are not a necessary outcome.  Meditation, counseling (group with other survivors and individual), medication all can help.  

All you really need is a change in perspective.  I was lucky.  I emerged from my OHS and a 2 week medically induced coma filled with gratitude and love for everyone who saved my life and helped me along the way.  I was like Ebenezer Scrooge after his long night with the ghosts of Christmas.  

So, everything is possible.  You have been granted a new life, a second chance.  Embrace every moment, and let the future, which doesn't exist anyway except in your mind, take care of itself.

Good luck,

Ira

------------------------------
Ira Reid
Hoboken NJ
------------------------------

Thanks you, Mary, but "we're all just walking each other home" on this blog, as Ram Dass used to say.  We're all teaching and learning from one another how to live our lives as best we can in this amazing universe and recognizing, along the way, that we're really all the same.

Ira

------------------------------
Ira Reid
Hoboken NJ
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 06-08-2021 07:16
From: mary hedtke
Subject: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Ira is a wonderful example how the same OHS can have different results when it comes to dealing and healing with anxiety and depression

I started daily meditation also and the knowledge that anxiety and depression is common after Heart Surgery actually helped me go deeper into relaxation techniques.

I consider myself very lucky too, I was born with a perfectly

normal heart that over 70 years became bitter and twisted in 

many different ways, physically and emotionally.  

My surgery was a wake up call and I consider and tell people that now my heart was put back in the right way 2 years ago and it is now my task and calling to keep it as healthy as possible from now on.

Every time I do not let anxiety and depression guide my hours or days, I am working towards heart health.  And at this stage of life, this is my goal.

Thank you Ira so much

Mary

Original Message:
Sent: 6/8/2021 6:45:00 AM
From: Ira Reid
Subject: RE: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Yes, Reed and Brett, anxiety and depression are quite common after open heart surgery, but I'm here to tell you that they are not a necessary outcome.  Meditation, counseling (group with other survivors and individual), medication all can help.

All you really need is a change in perspective.  I was lucky.  I emerged from my OHS and a 2 week medically induced coma filled with gratitude and love for everyone who saved my life and helped me along the way.  I was like Ebenezer Scrooge after his long night with the ghosts of Christmas.

So, everything is possible.  You have been granted a new life, a second chance.  Embrace every moment, and let the future, which doesn't exist anyway except in your mind, take care of itself.

Good luck,

Ira

------------------------------
Ira Reid
Hoboken NJ
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 06-07-2021 17:03
From: Reed Palmer
Subject: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Yes! I have anxiety and panic attacks more so now since my surgery for mitral valve repair. 4/19/2021. The only thing the Surgeon told me was he might do the minimally invasive approach through the ribs.
I have anxiety and panic attacks normally but since the surgery it has been amplified. I get emotional very easily.
The other thing I mentioned to the doctor, after the surgery is the numbness on the right side of my chest in my armpit and down my left side. It sometimes burns. The nurse practitioner says it's normal because they had to go through many layers of tissue and nerves may have been damaged as a result. She said most of the sensation will subside in months to come. I am very grateful to them for saving my life but more info would have been nice.
The surgeon said I would spend 5 days in the hospital but I was in there for 10. I am seeking counseling and have gotten a psychiatrist to help deal with what my counselor called PTSD. It does happen. I am on psych meds to help but I think they have to up my doses.
Because of the anxiety and panic attacks my blood pressure has been high. A vicious cycle when OCD is put into the mix along with possible bipolar.
So yeah I'm a bit of a mess for now until they get this under control.
I'm still waiting for rehab. That may also help when I can start to exercise again. I was very active until COVID hit and the back in Feb my breathing became impaired....SOB.....I wasn't diagnosed until April. Virtually every doctor I saw missed the problem so now trust has also become an issue with my doctors.
SCARY STUFF.

------------------------------
Reed Palmer

Thank you Ira
Mine is very fresh and I'm have difficulty accepting that there's an artificial structure in my heart keeping me alive.
I keep asking myself ....what if the part fails? Like my wife said to me to help me through this adjustment period..." The parts you were born with failed you so now you have brand new parts that will last a long time". 
I guess I'm obsessing about what my cardiologist and pulmonologist said to me......"Your damaged mitral valve could last you for the rest of your life....you could go to your grave not needing surgery to replace it". My wife told me I took that as a guarantee....she's right, I kind of did. 
When I became asymptomatic, I thought something else was going on....especially when my two doctors said my valve looked like usual for me and they didn't see any change.
It was when my wife took me to the ER because my coloring and breathing became even more labored.
The ER shipped me to Mass General Boston when after three days of testing they had me in surgery to repair the valve.
Scary times.
Hopefully I get a change in perspective after I see my counsellor and a psychiatrist to help me.
Thanks for your support Ira...

------------------------------
Reed Palmer
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 06-08-2021 06:45
From: Ira Reid
Subject: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Yes, Reed and Brett, anxiety and depression are quite common after open heart surgery, but I'm here to tell you that they are not a necessary outcome.  Meditation, counseling (group with other survivors and individual), medication all can help.

All you really need is a change in perspective.  I was lucky.  I emerged from my OHS and a 2 week medically induced coma filled with gratitude and love for everyone who saved my life and helped me along the way.  I was like Ebenezer Scrooge after his long night with the ghosts of Christmas.

So, everything is possible.  You have been granted a new life, a second chance.  Embrace every moment, and let the future, which doesn't exist anyway except in your mind, take care of itself.

Good luck,

Ira

------------------------------
Ira Reid
Hoboken NJ
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 06-07-2021 17:03
From: Reed Palmer
Subject: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Yes! I have anxiety and panic attacks more so now since my surgery for mitral valve repair. 4/19/2021. The only thing the Surgeon told me was he might do the minimally invasive approach through the ribs.
I have anxiety and panic attacks normally but since the surgery it has been amplified. I get emotional very easily.
The other thing I mentioned to the doctor, after the surgery is the numbness on the right side of my chest in my armpit and down my left side. It sometimes burns. The nurse practitioner says it's normal because they had to go through many layers of tissue and nerves may have been damaged as a result. She said most of the sensation will subside in months to come. I am very grateful to them for saving my life but more info would have been nice.
The surgeon said I would spend 5 days in the hospital but I was in there for 10. I am seeking counseling and have gotten a psychiatrist to help deal with what my counselor called PTSD. It does happen. I am on psych meds to help but I think they have to up my doses.
Because of the anxiety and panic attacks my blood pressure has been high. A vicious cycle when OCD is put into the mix along with possible bipolar.
So yeah I'm a bit of a mess for now until they get this under control.
I'm still waiting for rehab. That may also help when I can start to exercise again. I was very active until COVID hit and the back in Feb my breathing became impaired....SOB.....I wasn't diagnosed until April. Virtually every doctor I saw missed the problem so now trust has also become an issue with my doctors.
SCARY STUFF.

------------------------------
Reed Palmer

Reed,  

Your wife is 100% correct.  Your natural parts did fail and your artificial new parts successfully replaced them.  Think of it this way; you can now tell all your friends that you are an android.  I still tell people that my scars were the result of surviving a bear attack.  

In physical rehab after my surgery, a guy who had received a knee reconstruction was struggling struggling with a walking exercise and asked the physical therapist why I was moving better than him.  She replied that I had a different type of surgery, to which I replied, "yeah, they cut my heart out of my body and held it in their hands", at which point everyone burst out laughing while the therapist announced "they did not."

One more story.  During my post-surgery ICU delusions and hallucinations, there was this very large powerful nurse who would lift me effortlessly. I was convinced he was a robot and, as I was regaining a more normal state of mind, I looked him in the eyes and asked him straight up, "are you an android?", to which he laughed and replied that he was quite human.  He once told me he had Star Wars dreams and asked me if I did.  I deadpanned "no, I just dream of going to the white light at the end of a long dark tunnel." That got a rise out of him!  Humor is great medicine.

Ira

------------------------------
Ira Reid
Hoboken NJ
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 06-08-2021 07:55
From: Reed Palmer
Subject: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Thank you Ira
Mine is very fresh and I'm have difficulty accepting that there's an artificial structure in my heart keeping me alive.
I keep asking myself ....what if the part fails? Like my wife said to me to help me through this adjustment period..." The parts you were born with failed you so now you have brand new parts that will last a long time".
I guess I'm obsessing about what my cardiologist and pulmonologist said to me......"Your damaged mitral valve could last you for the rest of your life....you could go to your grave not needing surgery to replace it". My wife told me I took that as a guarantee....she's right, I kind of did.
When I became asymptomatic, I thought something else was going on....especially when my two doctors said my valve looked like usual for me and they didn't see any change.
It was when my wife took me to the ER because my coloring and breathing became even more labored.
The ER shipped me to Mass General Boston when after three days of testing they had me in surgery to repair the valve.
Scary times.
Hopefully I get a change in perspective after I see my counsellor and a psychiatrist to help me.
Thanks for your support Ira...

------------------------------
Reed Palmer
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 06-08-2021 06:45
From: Ira Reid
Subject: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Yes, Reed and Brett, anxiety and depression are quite common after open heart surgery, but I'm here to tell you that they are not a necessary outcome.  Meditation, counseling (group with other survivors and individual), medication all can help.

All you really need is a change in perspective.  I was lucky.  I emerged from my OHS and a 2 week medically induced coma filled with gratitude and love for everyone who saved my life and helped me along the way.  I was like Ebenezer Scrooge after his long night with the ghosts of Christmas.

So, everything is possible.  You have been granted a new life, a second chance.  Embrace every moment, and let the future, which doesn't exist anyway except in your mind, take care of itself.

Good luck,

Ira

------------------------------
Ira Reid
Hoboken NJ


Original Message:
Sent: 06-07-2021 17:03
From: Reed Palmer
Subject: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Yes! I have anxiety and panic attacks more so now since my surgery for mitral valve repair. 4/19/2021. The only thing the Surgeon told me was he might do the minimally invasive approach through the ribs.
I have anxiety and panic attacks normally but since the surgery it has been amplified. I get emotional very easily.
The other thing I mentioned to the doctor, after the surgery is the numbness on the right side of my chest in my armpit and down my left side. It sometimes burns. The nurse practitioner says it's normal because they had to go through many layers of tissue and nerves may have been damaged as a result. She said most of the sensation will subside in months to come. I am very grateful to them for saving my life but more info would have been nice.
The surgeon said I would spend 5 days in the hospital but I was in there for 10. I am seeking counseling and have gotten a psychiatrist to help deal with what my counselor called PTSD. It does happen. I am on psych meds to help but I think they have to up my doses.
Because of the anxiety and panic attacks my blood pressure has been high. A vicious cycle when OCD is put into the mix along with possible bipolar.
So yeah I'm a bit of a mess for now until they get this under control.
I'm still waiting for rehab. That may also help when I can start to exercise again. I was very active until COVID hit and the back in Feb my breathing became impaired....SOB.....I wasn't diagnosed until April. Virtually every doctor I saw missed the problem so now trust has also become an issue with my doctors.
SCARY STUFF.

------------------------------
Reed Palmer

Original Message:
Sent: 6/8/2021 6:45:00 AM
From: Ira Reid
Subject: RE: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Yes, Reed and Brett, anxiety and depression are quite common after open heart surgery, but I'm here to tell you that they are not a necessary outcome.  Meditation, counseling (group with other survivors and individual), medication all can help.  

All you really need is a change in perspective.  I was lucky.  I emerged from my OHS and a 2 week medically induced coma filled with gratitude and love for everyone who saved my life and helped me along the way.  I was like Ebenezer Scrooge after his long night with the ghosts of Christmas.  

So, everything is possible.  You have been granted a new life, a second chance.  Embrace every moment, and let the future, which doesn't exist anyway except in your mind, take care of itself.

Good luck,

Ira

------------------------------
Ira Reid
Hoboken NJ
------------------------------

Hi Brett
I found this site by chance. Your comments caught my eye. What you experienced is what I'm doing now. 
Thank you for sharing.

------------------------------
Reed Palmer
------------------------------

Hi Brett,
I am three months post op from open heart surgery for bicuspid aortic valve and have noticed that anxiety, irritability, and frustration along with other emotions have been a part of my post op experience and have learned that it does take time for the body to heal as it has been traumatized with the surgical procedure.  This sounds simple but  for me it has become important to be kind to myself  and give myself permission and the space to heal both  physically, mentally and emotionally.  I have found  activities that give myself a break from daily routines such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, rowing, cycling, walking the beach all have helped as well as doing something totally different from my normal regimen to allow me to 'think out of the box' and break the rumination tendencies.

------------------------------
Kat Edwards
CA
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10/20/2021 11:29:00 PM
From: Kat Edwards
Subject: RE: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Hi Brett,
I am three months post op from open heart surgery for bicuspid aortic valve and have noticed that anxiety, irritability, and frustration along with other emotions have been a part of my post op experience and have learned that it does take time for the body to heal as it has been traumatized with the surgical procedure.  This sounds simple but  for me it has become important to be kind to myself  and give myself permission and the space to heal both  physically, mentally and emotionally.  I have found  activities that give myself a break from daily routines such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, rowing, cycling, walking the beach all have helped as well as doing something totally different from my normal regimen to allow me to 'think out of the box' and break the rumination tendencies.

------------------------------
Kat Edwards
CA
------------------------------

Dear Brett and Kat
Anxiety is so natural when you have had this life shaking experience!!
Fortunately I didn't suffer; my doctor automatically put me on medication before i left the hospital . I was always cheerful. I just kept renewing all medications for about 4 months until i realized what i was on. then i asked the doctor how to wean off.

Marilyn B. Rosenhouse
Mobile: (214)850-0655


Original Message:
Sent: 10/21/2021 9:37:00 AM
From: Brett Temple
Subject: RE: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Thank you for the helpful words, Kat. Since posting this last year I've found out that this type of anxiety is normal after OHS. I think the doctors and nurses involved in your treatment after the surgery should prepare patients for this likelihood. It would have made it easier for me if I had known what to expect. One of the biggest things that helped me was the advice, support and encouragement I received from the Mended Hearts. Hearing other people share their stories and knowing I wasn't the only one made a big difference and let me know I would get through it. Although I will occasionally have a day where I feel anxiety creeping in but thankfully those days are few and far between now.

Brett, Kat and Marilyn,

I have to tell you and everyone else that anxiety, fear, depression, irritability are not inevitable after open heart surgery or any other life altering or threatening event.  Our emotions do not arise out of the events we experience in our lives, but rather from our beliefs and attitudes about what those events mean to us.  Many if not most of those beliefs are those we adopted, frequently unconsciously, from the societal norms we learned as children from parents, friends, teachers, religion and other societal institutions. They become what a dear deceased friend and teacher of mine called our belief architecture.  Not only our feelings but our entire notion of what constitutes reality is defined by this belief architecture, which becomes an internal prison in which we limit the true extent of our freedom and happiness and joy of living.

When I first became fully conscious three weeks after my open heart surgery, a two week medically induced coma due to complications, and another week of hallucinations, I felt no anxiety whatsoever, even though I was so weak that I couldn't feed myself, let alone stand or walk.  Instead, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and joy at just being alive.  I was positively giddy with joy, like Ebenezer Scrooge on Christmas day after surviving the ghosts.  To this day, I believe that one of the male nurses, who was very, very gentle and fed me, was the living incarnation of Jesus Christ.  I even called him Jesu.  And I'm a secular Jewish Zen Buddhist!  Now, four years later, I still feel tge same way.  I have to deal with all the usual life problems, family, money, health and whatever else, but I feel at peace.

As a million people have famously stated, none of us will get out of here alive.  I am at peace with that thought.  I see my own likely endgame, which may come in a minute or some time within the next fifteen years, probably somewhere in between.  I am ready whenever that time cones when I shed my body and pass through the Bardo into the next plane of existence.  Moritori te salutant.  We who are about to die salute you.  I am free.

Ira


------------------------------
Ira Reid
Hoboken NJ
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10-21-2021 09:36
From: Brett Temple
Subject: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Thank you for the helpful words, Kat. Since posting this last year I've found out that this type of anxiety is normal after OHS. I think the doctors and nurses involved in your treatment after the surgery should prepare patients for this likelihood. It would have made it easier for me if I had known what to expect. One of the biggest things that helped me was the advice, support and encouragement I received from the Mended Hearts. Hearing other people share their stories and knowing I wasn't the only one made a big difference and let me know I would get through it. Although I will occasionally have a day where I feel anxiety creeping in but thankfully those days are few and far between now.

Original Message:
Sent: 10/20/2021 11:29:00 PM
From: Kat Edwards
Subject: RE: Anxiety after open heart surgery

Hi Brett,
I am three months post op from open heart surgery for bicuspid aortic valve and have noticed that anxiety, irritability, and frustration along with other emotions have been a part of my post op experience and have learned that it does take time for the body to heal as it has been traumatized with the surgical procedure.  This sounds simple but  for me it has become important to be kind to myself  and give myself permission and the space to heal both  physically, mentally and emotionally.  I have found  activities that give myself a break from daily routines such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, rowing, cycling, walking the beach all have helped as well as doing something totally different from my normal regimen to allow me to 'think out of the box' and break the rumination tendencies.

------------------------------
Kat Edwards
CA
------------------------------