Post surgical procedures of heart surgery aren’t complex if followed as per what your Essex Heart Clinic’ doctor prescribed. There are some do’s and don’ts one just take care after going through a heart surgery that includes the basics from changes in diet to managing stress and pain. A patient may take more than 6 weeks to recover fully while some may take less than 6 weeks for the same. Here are some of the things that can be taken care of if you or your beloved are going through the post-surgical heart recovery.
Taking care of diet
One should take care of their diet as per their doctor’s prescription. Foods which are high in salt or fried should be avoided. One may not feel hungry or more tired than usual. Instead of following a three course meal or not eating at all it is wise to take small and frequent meals across the day that are easy to digest and provide you with equal energy to heal and recover.
Adjusting to sleeping
The big incision on your chest and the pain associated may make it hard to sleep and relax. But stress related to difficulty in sleeping will slowly become manageable and there is nothing to worry about. Try listening to relaxing music and avoid taking meals just before your bedtime or caffeine drinks as they can hamper your sleep completely. One reason for not able to sleep properly at night could be because of sleeping or taking longer naps in the day. Managing between two is essential. If sleeping discomfort remains persistent for more than two to three weeks, inform your doctor.
Managing pain
Post surgery one major thing that creates discomfort is pain. Our doctor might advise different pain relief methods including painkillers for you to manage extreme or mild pain especially during sleeping. However, your own role is also crucial in managing pain. Following proper routine and taking all cautions as per doctor’s advice is important and so does a positive approach towards recovery.
Movement
One should avoid standing or longer than 15 minutes at the same place or pulling and lifting heavy objects, especially more than 10 pounds. Avoid climbing stairs, walking more than what should be enough or totally relying on bed rest. Initially, it is good to start with slow movements that might include doing household chores and later as days pass walking in your garden or inside area slowly. Equally, one should take care as they stand from sitting or lying so that there is no pressure formed on the upper body part.
Wound healing
The surgical cut needs to be managed so as to avoid any infection or more discomfort. On certain incidents like redness of the area or if there is any liquid discharge, oozing or pus, or you experience fever more than 100 degree, inform your doctor. Ensure monitoring of your blood pressure every few days. Since the incision cut is large and on the breastbone, you must take good care especially during the start to allow your breastbone to heal.
All the above measures along with doctor’s advice should be followed carefully for faster and healthier recovery.