Quote:
Originally Posted by kittygilchrist
A dear friend is expecting to be told that bypass surgery is the next step after the heart attack of a few weeks ago.
Can some of you help with info on your experiences...how scary is it, where to go for surgery, not to go, what's rehab like, feelings waking up, how much help you need at home...how long til you can be independent?
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Kitty
First of all, I would tell your friend that the most scary thing is what their condition is now. The anticipation of surgery is always a concern. After accepting the necessity of surgery, you just want to get it done. Recovery time will vary depending on age and the type of bypass surgery; cutting the chest wide open or a minimally invasive type whereby they go through a rib. When you wake up in the recovery room you will be groggy and sleepy for quite a few hours. tubes will likely be coming from every orfice you have. most will be removed in a day or so. The most important thing to recovery is following Drs. directives 100%. This includes excercising the lungs, walking often, eating properly etc. they try to get the patient up and walking as soon as possible. Take the pain meds as prescribed, even though you may not think you need them. Use the pillow against your chest when you cough. You will have drainage tubes for a day or so, but when they are removed, you must cough up the fluid that the tubes were handling earlier. Over time, a week or two you will feel stronger and stronger. Because this is major surgery, some people have a period of depression. Always accept rehab and attend as scheduled. From that time on, your cardiologist will become your most trusted advisor. There is also a club called "The Mended Hearts Club" for which you are automatically a member. They spend time in the hospitals providing bypass patients advice and comfort. The lead-up to the surgery is the worst. Once they give you the "joy juice", nothing matters any more.
I am a former bypass patient with NO restrictions. I play pickleball every day, golf ocassionally and softball ocassionally. Oh yes, sex was not affected!