I haven't personally been through this surgery but I've had many patients after open heart surgeries. The main things are to get up and moving as soon as possible, go through the physical therapy to increase stamina and feel like you are able to function well again, and be really vigilant for depression. Many, many people suffer from a big depression after heart surgery, and some studies have shown that it is triggered physiologically. Untreated depression can really set recovery back, and because they are recovering from surgery, people don't always recognize it as depression. They often think it is just another part of recovery.
So if you notice signs of depression, be sure and address it. That way it won't impede recovery. Just the fact that you are ready and willing to help in recovery will mean more than anything else.
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Hi Tina
I haven't personally been through this surgery but I've had many patients after open heart surgeries. The main things are to get up and moving as soon as possible, go through the physical therapy to increase stamina and feel like you are able to function well again, and be really vigilant for depression. Many, many people suffer from a big depression after heart surgery, and some studies have shown that it is triggered physiologically. Untreated depression can really set recovery back, and because they are recovering from surgery, people don't always recognize it as depression. They often think it is just another part of recovery.
So if you notice signs of depression, be sure and address it. That way it won't impede recovery. Just the fact that you are ready and willing to help in recovery will mean more than anything else.
Good luck.
April 7, 2010 - 6:18amThis Comment
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