“Did Your Heart Pound Like Crazy After Valve Surgery?” Asks Josh

32 years after my heart valve surgery (when I was 7), I still have an acute awareness of my heart rhythm. I sense each misfiring contraction and each normal beat (when I’m still). I don’t often sleep on my left side because the beating seems more pronounced for me, so I’m a right-side sleeper.

When I was younger I did feel the sensation you mentioned – that of my heart beating high in my chest. Now that I’m older and heavier, I don’t encounter that feeling as much (perhaps I just became accustomed to it!). To help “hide” the feeling I am usually moving some body part to create a sensory distraction. It isn’t anything that most people would notice – sometimes I wiggle my toes or very gently shake my legs while sitting.

I’m not aware of my heartbeat most of the time, but when I want to I can focus on it and know what’s going on.

Here are benefits to feeling your heart beating:
1. You are alive!
2. You can take your own “pulse” without holding your wrist
3. You can sense when you need to slow down while exercising

Great points Kevin!

Thanks for sharing!

Have you had the same valve for the past 32 years?

Keep on tickin!

Adam

For the first six or so weeks after my Ross surgery, I had to sleep in a near sitting position. If I lay down, the pounding would literally keep me awake. During this time I also noticed that my resting heart rate was noticeably higher than before. All these issues are now gone. Another weird sensation was how my heart beat before and after surgery. All my life I never had the sensation of two contractions per beat, just one pounding beat. This is difficult to describe, but after my surgery I now notice two distinct pulses per beat. Don’t really know why. What I do know is that I feel great and my echo’s look good. Wish you the best.

-Shelby

Yes! I had the same sensation! I was sitting around “recovering” and commented to everyone how I was “moving” while just sitting there. I might as well have been in a rocking chair! ……another thing that didnt happen till month 2 was about 2 weeks of fluttering heart rythm that would sometimes last the night…apparently this was normal too.

Oh, yes — the dreaded preventricular contractions and atrial fibrillations. I started with the former and ended with the latter over a period of two weeks or so. Miserable. Mine were constant for two weeks, and then ended as quickly as they began. I should have mentioned these in my previous post.

-Shelby

I did have the same sensations after my Ross. I was certainly more aware of my heartbeat…especially while resting or sleeping. I still have it somewhat today, but as Kevin says, it means that I’m still alive!

I had aortic repair last July and have experienced the same sensations that you describe. At first it kept me awake to the point that I went several weeks using my MP3 player ‘in-the-ear’ buds with music to drown out the sound/sensation for sleeping.

Thankfully, it seems to have gotten much better or perhaps I’m growing less sensitive to the experience, but it’s unquestionably not the same as pre-surgery. I talked to my surgeon about it and he was unfamiliar with the complaint but theorized that the Dacron tube graft, being less flexible than my native aorta, may transmit the heart beats more readily.

By the way, my resting pulse rate for the first month after surgery was about 20/min higher but now it is only about 5/min higher.

Adam, I am assuming both you and Josh were cleared for atrial fibrillation, which can cause the pounding sensation. Has Josh worn a holter monitor after his surgery to catch these episodes and perhaps shed further light on them? I did have a bit of atrial fib after my mitral valve repair but it converted quickly. I did not experience this pounding, but I did not have the same valve involved. It sounds as if it resolves with time, so I hope that will be the case with Josh.
Cheers
Leslie

I’m still just 2 weeks out from my Mitral Valve repair surgery. I have experienced the same or similar sensations that Josh is describing. It is especially predominant at night and a couple of times kept me from sleeping. It seems to be subsiding somewhat (or I’m adjusting to it) at this point. But at first it had me worried.

I to had similar problems. I could not lay flat at night, my heart was just pounding. My doctor adjusted my nighttime med and his nurse suggested I try sleeping on my side or use a body pillow. Tried sleeping on my side clutching the heart pillow I was given in the hospital. Have had no problems since and no more pillow.

I could not sleep for the first week after valve replacement… I suddenly had a very strong heart beat! My surgery was Feb 6 and I still have times when my heartbeat seems very loud. I have learned to think of something else and it disappears. Good luck.

Josh,
I had similar sensations after Mitral valve replacement although milder than you describe. I had Atrial Fibrillation and and it really bothered me.
My new Cardiologist put me on Sotolol for several weeks then performed Cardio-Version (colioquially – jumpstart).
It worked really well, the old ticker has settled down really well, a few minor sensations but reducing – nothing to worry about. The Sotolol reduced my BP to the extent that I no longer need Atacan (Hypertension medication).
Happy happy
Best of luck
Ross

I had my aortic valve replaced with a mechanical valve and my ascending aorta replaced with gortex, my root rebuilt and a graft/bypass as well as a pacemaker implanted 4 moths ago. I have the EXACT sensation that you described. When I told my heart surgeon about it he said the EXACT same thing your Dr,’s and nurses told you “You will be more aware of your heart beating.”

Absolutely. I had an aortic valve replacement and aortic graft in October, 2008. I couldn’t believe how strong my heartbeat felt. In fact, it still does to a degree, but not like in the weeks immediately following surgery. If I laid on my side the sound of the beating heart really reverberated if my ear was pressed against a pillow. I thought that surely my wife could hear it, but she said that she couldn’t.
I’m presuming that this is the result of a stronger, tighter, properly functioning heart and I’d gotten used to it not working at 100%.

I have had my aortic valve replaced when I was 20, 38 years ago now. I do recall being more aware of the sounds after the surgery a definate click, but I was a lot thinner in those days. I may have weigher about 160 in those days. I am 6’1″ and now weigh about 210. I work out every day, rowing. As I have gotten larger the noise is less noticable and now I can barely hear it at all.

I will be getting it replaced (same valve for 38 years) in June along with my aortic root. I will be very interested to see if the St Jude valve is more quite than the antique I have now.

Dear Josh,

I am seven weeks post op from aortic valve replacement and aortic root repair which was very successful. the only lasting symptom that I have is an impressive pulse sensation in my throat. It often disturbs me so much that I have to stop what I’m doing for a moment.
I was so glad to hear about your symptoms because I thought that I was the only one that had this. I have talked to many people who have had aortic valve replacement and no one else has described this. My cardiologist and surgeon seemed unconcerned after making certain that I did not an arrythmia. I cannot get any official explanation for this condition and my hope is that it will subside or diminish with time. I have done a lot of research about this and cannot find much information. I hope that someone can explain it.
Thank you asking about it.
Annette S

Josh… I had a similar experience after my aortic valve replacement. With every heart beat I thought my head was literally twitching to the side… to the point I was self conscious of it despite it wasn”t really twitching! I’m going on 12 weeks post op and I can say that I no longer really feel that anymore. I always thought of it as getting back to “normal”. It “sounds” like you’re doing fine!

Josh, You have described my symptoms exactly. It has been 6 months since I recieved a new upper aorta and new aortic valve. I feel my heartbeat out in my arms , in my neck and chest. Particularly while lying down. I can stand 4 or 5 feet in front of someone in a relativly quite, take a deep breath and hold it and they can easily hear my heartbeat. I am very thankful to be able to still have it ticking!

Thanks everybody!!!

As you know, there is nothing better than hearing “you’re not alone” from other patients about recovery issues and post-operative, patient life.

I really appreciate all of you taking the time and energy to support Josh!!!

Have a great Friday!!!!

Keep on tickin!

Adam

hi annette and everyone else, i have the same sound coming from my new aortic root and valve. i noticed it about 2 days after surgery. ive noticed that most of us have had the root replaced and i wonder if its the sound of the blood hitting the dacron material? it seems everyone is guessing, whoever i talk to anyway offers an opinion. but no one has actually said that they are sure of what causes it.i find that it changes with my neck or abdomen position. like sitting back or bent over it seems to change.someone said that its the sound of blood actually getting thru my valve , and i never really had that all these years with the faulty one that i had.if anyone has a scientific answer or any other ideas or questions, email me at jeffstoveken@yahoo.com thanks, jeff

It is good to know that I am not alone as I too experienced a pounding heartbeat following the repair of both my aortic valve and aortic aneurysm. The symptoms would come and go but seemed to be more pronounced when I was lying down or sitting in a chair. Interestingly enough, they would subside when I stood up. I was unprepared for this and wondered if what I was feeling was normal and perhaps it was something I would experience the rest of my life. My Cardiologist was not too helpful in setting my mind at ease and I certainly was left with the impression he was unaware of this symptom. I am please to report that at 3 months post surgery this pounding sensation has signficantly subsided and I am nearly back to normal.

I had a tissue valve input 8 weeks ago and I had the same loud heartbeat in my ears when I lay down or put my head against anything that basically forced the sound back. I did not really hear it sitting up nor did I ever feel that my heart was actually beating hard. That may partially be due to the fact that I had listened to this beating in my ears and even felt it in my chest for several years prior to reaching the point of having the surgery.
This does make going to sleep a little challanging.
I am now 8 weeks out and do not notice the beating sound in my ears much anymore.

I’m now about 4 months out of surgery for aortic valve replacement, and ascending aorta replacement.
I still notice the stength of the heartbeat seeming to be stronger than prior to the operation and that makes sense to me.
The valve was very bad for years and the heart was having a hard time maintaining a “regular” beat and now that it has a new valve it is working as it should and I read that to mean “stronger” so I’m not surprised by the feeling it is firmer, more solid, a beat.
The doc says this is normal for me so I don’t alarm over it any longer.

When I go to sleep at night and the house is very quiet I hear my heart beating. During the day when I am active and there is noise in my office, I do not hear my heart beating. My surgeon, Dr. Oz, suggested that I leave the TV on at night if the noise from my heart beating prevented me from sleeping. I have not had to do that because the noise from my heart beating has not prevented me from going to sleep. Good luck.

Yes, I did, and it scared me to death (almost). But my wonderful cardiologist, Dr. Joseph Garcia, hospitalized me and got my heart regulated. I have been off all heart medications for six months! Hope you have the same results.

I also had pounding in my chest, particularly when lying on my back or side. However, what I also had (and wasn’t warned about) was 2 bouts of Atrial Fibrillation after surgery. The first one was 3 days afterwards, the other was 3 weeks afterwards and hospitalised me for 2 days. Apparently this is common although not ‘normal’. It was enough to worry me but it would have been useful had someone warned me that it could happen. Hope it helps.

Hi,
I’m a 60 year old woman who had Aortic and Mitral Valve replacement (2 cow valves) and a by-pass 3 months ago yesterday, then a pace maker last month. The pounding of my heart has been the most annoying of symptoms, and I have received no answers about it from anyone. I also experience the even louder and it seems faster pounding when I try to inhale deeply – which is a little on the frightening side. What is this? Even at 3 months out, this is still happening. Will it go away? Wish I could give some answers – but I don’t have them, and this is the first mention of it I’ve found on the internet. Hope someone has the answer.
Mimi

I am 62 years old and on the 20 November 2008 I received an ATS mechanical aortic valve. I think the major problem is that you become acutely aware of that wonderful organ called a heart. Initially my heart would continually do the gipsy trip but I am still acutely aware of it pounding at times after 27 weeks. The other annoyances that I experience is the clicking (a clock in my chest) mainly during quite times and the lifelong warfin teatment and associated blood test. I guess little to complain about because I still have my life thanks to those wonderful and dedicated medical professionals.

Yes it did. It was explained to me by my surgeon at my six week check-up(wished I had known sooner) that the pericardium of the heart is opened. The pericardium acts like a muffler for the heart. When there is a hole in it, the sound transmits more just like having a hole in a car muffler. Ones heart beat is elevated post-op – it takes considerable time to get it reconditioned with prescribed exercises and also for the hole in the pericardium to close over. At 3 months post-op, under doctor supervision, I was in a supervised cardiac rehab program. It helped me so much. Prior to that I diligently did the prescribed exercises/walking. Meditation tapes, music, and Reiki were helpful to allay stress and in so doing lowered my heart rate. I resumed my Tai Chi at 4 months. I am grateful for my recovery. At times, I wondered!

Very common to feel this, especially if lying on left side, most likely due to inflammation post op, and change in fluid dynamics in chest – this settles down after a few month. As long as heart isn’t racing fast >120 bpm at rest no worries. Almost every open heart surgery patient experiences this.

Thank you for the encouraging comments!
I have been beginning to think I still have something
wrong with another valve. Patience!!
MImi

hi,

i had aortic valve replace on march 17th 2009.

wow. the pounding in my chest is amazing. also, have a quite fast heart beat always over 100 bpm. puts my mind at rest now i read some of your blogs.

thank you,

dave tranmer

I have that pounding the feeling and I haven’t had valve repair surgery.
It happens sometimes from being in certain positions. Sometimes just from bending over to get something from the refrigerator. Some episodes are shorter; my longest has gone on for 8.5 hours. I was on Crestor five years ago for about 5.5 months and this brough the problem to my attention dramatically, but until now it could not be documented on an event recorder.

I do have a mitral valve problem and for that matter a lesser problem with the aortic valve. I am scheduled to have my A-fluuter and A-fib corrected on August 10, 2009. Could it be my A-Flutter and A-Fib causing this sensation. The hospital did review my coronary angiography test from 4.5 years ago and my cardiologist’s records and hasn’t recommened repair of my valve(s)

Nope I’m not on coumadin or plavix either. I have stomach problems which are too lengthy too cover here.

Hello, my name is Danny. Havent had surgery but going for my 1st check up since finding out i have an acsending aortic anyurism. Really looking for anyone to chat with. Very nervous and scared. Im 35, have always been healthy and my world came to a hault 5 months ago. Dont know if im in the right place, but could someone tell me about an online support group? Adam im about to get your book. Ive been looking at your site for 5 months now… and its the only place so far ive seen that has any kind of answers. Thanks to anyone who can help. My email is tdh7674@yahoo.com

I had an aortic valve replacement and my aortic root aneurysm was fixed about 9 wks ago. It’s been that long and I still do feel that my heart flutters a lot and beats from normal to very fast especially at night. I don’t sleep much, 3 to 4 hours will be good enough for me. I went to my cardiologist for an echocardiogram and test showed that my heart is doing just fine. I am very frustrated and depressed sometimes thinking something is not normal inside. I’m glad I’m not alone. I do say sometimes I’m tired of myself and I know I need some patience.
Thank you.

I had both my mitral and aorta replaced with plastic parts back in March, ’09 and tell everyone (including my doctors) that my ticker now beats like a bass drum 24/7. It drives me nuts but it beats the alternative. I just turned 52 and thought I was Superman until they found a 3.00″ x 3.25″ anuerism on my aorta and a .50″ growth of staph in my mitral. I had my work done at the O.S.U. Ross Heart Hospital. Dr. Sirack did the stitching and he is the best.

I guess Heaven wasn’t ready for me yet.

yes, I noticed this sitting by my sons bed at the hospital. I could see his heart beating. I truly enjoed watching it work, I hope it dosn’t bother him. He’s 10 and just had his aortic valve replaced. I have two sons with Aortic stenoises. My 12 year old had his repaired about 5 years ago and will have it replaced in time.
Sheila

Hey Josh,

Just saw your post, I’m experiencing the same sensations. The nurses who have
visited me in the six weeks since my mechanical aortic valve was replaced say it’s normal. I do have anxiety about it which I will address when I see my surgeon this week. Everyone keeps telling me I’m fixed, I say I’m damaged. I think we’re both right, surgery has saved my life but my body is still in pain and won’t ever been structurally the same. I suppose we both have to get use to our new reality of having this incredibly strong heartbeat. Good luck and stay well.

Hi there! had aortic valve and root replacement in October 2008 and have had pounding heart issues ever since. Heavy pounding heart especially at night with missing beats as soon as I lie down. I have also noticed small involuntary breaths on each heart beat especially when lying on my left side. My doctor says that there is absolutely nothing to worry about and I am inclined to agree, as exercise and normal daily life cause me no problems at all. During the day I don’t tend to notice anything unusual. On balance I am less worried having had advice and very happy to know that am not alone anymore!

Cheers from

Charlie

My wife had a Ross procedure on July 1st of this year. She has been getting intermittent bouts of “hard heartbeats” starting about 2 weeks after surgery. She does not complain of shortness of breath or lightheadedness. Her pulse usually drops when she is having these “hard heartbeats”. It brings her a lot of anxiety not knowing what is causing this issue. We go to her f/u exam in a few days, and we’ll see what her MD has to say. I’ll also have her read the previous posts to see if it is similar to what she has been experiencing.

This is in response to Dennis’ comment about his wife. I too have the same complaint like your wife. Although, I call it forceful hearbeats. The last visit I had at the cardiologists I told them that it usually happens at night when i’m lying down . I asked them could it be my medication that’s causing these forceful heartbeats? I am taking metoprolol 25 mg at night and was told to cut my med and just take 12.5 mg. The heartbeats are a lot better and works quite well if I try to lay down on my left side.

I had a mechanical valve installed. My heart did not pound, but I could sure hear the ticking as the valve close. I asked my Doctor about this, and he remarked, “Don’t worry when you hear the ticking, but you should start worring when you CAN’T hear it ticking!”

Just had my aortic vatlve replacement surgery. Still in the hospital, lying in bed feeling my heart pound away. Went on line and found the answers to my questions. Now I know why, I will go to sleep. Thank you all. This is fantastic.

I can soooo relate. I had the Ross Procedure in 95 and had a stronger heartbeat for a couple weeks. However, in June 2009, that was replaced with an On-x mechanical valve and I had an aortic aneurysm repaired ( Dacron Graft) . This time, my heart beat is extremely pronounced and has not subsided since surgery Regardless of the position, whether standing sitting or lying down it is no better. I have great difficulty sleeping. Again , my cardiologist was not aware of this symptom as was the surgeon’s nurse whom I spoke to recently. On the upside I know I am alive! Shouldn’t this be addressed? Obviously we all are experiencing this crazy symptom and it would have been helpful to be prepared.

I hsd aortic valve replacement in 2006. I have a mehanical valve. It is LOUD. Sometimes I have trouble hearing because of the loud click. My cardiologist and surgeon said not to worry. My cardiologist even said that because I am small boned, and thin the sound louder. I feel like i have a washing machine in my chest. I was so relieved to read that I am not alone. I teach school, walk three miles a day, andhave an active life. The sound it worse some days. I feel better now that I have read the comments from others.

Hi again everyone,
Well – it’s been 7 months since my surgery now – and guess what? The heart beat is not as obnoxious now! At night it still bothers me but during the day there’s not much of a problem. I hope you all recover well. Also -did I mention that because of uneven heart beats and too fast, as well as symptoms of dizziness with exertion, and many of the same symptoms I had before my surgery, I had to have a pace maker put in as well (5 months ago now) , then because even after the pace maker I had some of the same symptoms they increased my Motoprolol and it evened it all out and I have felt much better. But it was pretty scary thinking that there was something my Docs wouldn’t tell me! Call me paranoia – but it’s all really scary stuff! Hang in there – God bless you. Mimi

hi my name is dave tranmer i had mechanical aortic valve replacment seven months ago since then i have a realy strong sensation of thumping heart beat somtimes in my chest,neck or throat.so strong it somtimes nocks my teeth togher.
does anyone else have this.Its not there all the time i do get some days without.does anyone know why it happens. thanks dave t

Eleven months since aortic valve, triple bypass and aoritc patch and just recently has the pounding sound of my heart beat subsided (or more likely I have gotten used to it). Still cannot read the newspaper without being able to “see” my pulse is the shaking of the paper. I can cross my legs and watch my foot bounce to the beat. Kind of reassuring actually.

i had mechanical aortic valve replacment 9 months ago i still get the pounding in my chest and also when i inhale it feels like my heart hits my chest inside. does any one still have this after 9 months or more.

Dave, I had aortic valve replacemnt three years ago. I am small boned and thin, this may contribute to the pounding. My teeth can vibrate from the strong beats. My doctor says I have one of the loudest heart beats he has heard. However, he and other doctors tell me there is nothing I can do. I find this sensation verfy annoying. I have given up caffeine, but I don’t think that has helped this strong beats. I also see the newspaper shake as a result of these strong beats. Good luck, I know how you feel. Joyanne Cunninhgam

thanks joyanne for your responce its good to know im not the only one.but does you cardiologist say if it is dangerous.no one seems to be able to give me a straight answer.

I’ve found it very reassuring to read all these comments. I had AVR 8 weeks ago, with a mechanical valve fitted, using minimally invasive surgery (not a full cut through the sternum). I’m 34, and due to return to work next Monday. But this week, I noticed occasional brief “flutters”, and the occasional missed beat, and it has got me really worried, especially because I had a problem with atrial flutters immediately after discharge, leading to overnight readmission. Apparently, low potassium was the main reason then – easily treated with bananas. Not sure where this week’s flutter/missed beat has suddenly come from (could be starting cardiac rehab exercise programme, or the H1N1 vaccination I had last week – UK uses Pandemrix, which contains adjuvans), and I will see my GP tomorrow to get his view, but from reading some of these posts, it seems that (a) 8 weeks is early days in the recovery and (b) minor “hiccups” do crop up and disappear again for a little while after surgery. Any thoughts on this, anybody?

hi everyone i had mechanical aortic vale replacment 9 months ago as i have mentiond before i have very strong pounding in my chest now but am told not to worry about it.i have now devoloped some ectopic beats anyone else had these? and what was the outcome.

See my previous post – looks like I’ve got the same thing. My GP’s done some test and apparently these ectopics are normal. They could be related to the heart adjusting after the surgery as less force is now required to push the blood through the valve than before, for example. Still very annoying when they happen.

hi christian
thanks for your reply but what were your symptoms of ectopic beats.?also how loud is your valve.
hope u are all well.

Occasionally, I can feel the heart “skip” a beat, or do something that feels like it’s pausing and restarting (a bit like taking a deep breath, if that makes sense). I also get a distinct sensation in my chest, which is either strong pounding or just the “double-beat” of the heart. Once or twice, I’ve actually heard the valve do a double-click.
The valve is audible most of the time. Usually, it’s a bit like the second-hand on a wristwatch, but sometimes it is a very distinct clicking sound, and occasionally, it sounds like it’s rattling.
Hope you’re well!

thanks for your reply christian.i have almost the same symptoms but sometimes after the double beat /flutter feeling i get a fast heart beat that lasts about five minutes and just stops.and returns to normal 70-80 bpm.am now having tests for atrial flutter.
hope you are ell too.speak soon thanks

Yes I also had this sensation and found no answers. It took almost a year before the sensation subsided and slowly returned to normal. The body amazingly adapts and repairs so I would say just give it time. One thing I learned was to just be patient with the healing and although they tell you 4-6 weeks, the “real” return to normalcy is much longer.

Thanks for this, Brian. It might be ok to start doing things again after 6 weeks or so (I returned to work after 8 weeks, and then had the benefit of the Christmas shutdown, so really had 11 weeks off), but it must take a lot longer for the body to recover fully. My left chest is still pretty tender, even though I had minimally invasive replacement. Hopefully, this is all just the heart getting used to having a problem less to deal with.

Just to complicate matters, I’ve had frequent ectopics for the last day or so. My pulse is as steady as before, but there are tons of extra beats. Very annoying, but with the pulse rate remaining steady at 70-80, I suppose that’s just another thing to deal with…

Hi everyone. I am 27 years old I had aortic valve replaced and the root repaired about 5 weeks ago. I have been helped alot by everyones comments. I can here my mechanical valve as well as really being able to feel it thump. I can feel it up in my neck and can only not feel it if i lay a certain way. I was concerned about this and didnt know if it would go away but after reading everyones comments it seems to be normal. I guess the fact that i am thin makes me able to feel it more. I had a atrial fib a couple weeks after surgery and it seem i notice the pounding more since then. I dont know if its the medication they changed me to or what, Maybe its all just me thinking bout it all the time and it will get better with time. Thanks everyone

hi brad
my aortic valve was replaced 11 months ago i still have a very strong heartbeat that i somtimes feel in my neck.I have been to my cardiologist today following an echo he says my heart function is normal and the thumping is normal. you sort of get use to it after a while.i also had atrial flutter following surgery and take beta blockers now.
do you still have trial fib ?
hope u are well.

had mechanical valve almost 3 months ago with dacron tube cause of aneurysm. hear it all the time except sometimes when sitting up. can fall asleep, but when wake up early, hard to fall asleep again. now wish would’ve
went tissue, because of morbidity of coumadin, work restrictions, and valve noise. hope it decreases with time. not warned of this noise. now must pay for re-op later out of my pocket, to go to tissue ,in 8-10 years, unless mechanical
valve failure or other issues before then. anyone in similar situation?

I’m 63 and just past the 1st anniversary of my Bentall procedure (Aortic root, mechanical valve & ascending aorta). I’ve been disturbed since surgery by the sound and physical pounding in my chest. My cardio sounds like everyone else’s and is primarily concerned (correctly I believe) about any arrhythmia (and there has been quite a bit at times). Around the 6-month point I found the symptoms decreased — but then, they returned as strongly as ever. It seems that only in the last 6 weeks have they subsided again. Now I’m sleeping pretty well and am less generally disturbed so am hopeful that things will continue this way. I’m pleased to hear that it’s not just that I’m overly sensitive and that others have the same experience (apparently confounding all of our medical advisors).

Well, more heart rhythm trouble, so back to the cardiologist as soon as I can get an appointment. Funny experience during cardiac rehab – after the end-of-session cool-down, heartrate went down to 90 but then shot up to 125. The physio checked blood pressure/heart rate which reported at 45 with a flashing warning sign indicating an irregular heartbeat – and was up at 85 only 30 secs later. My GP also noticed an irregular heartbeat the following day, but by the time he got me onto the ECG machine, out came a picture-perfect steady sinus-rhythym ECG – even my GP was frustrated by that…

thank you so much for all your messages.i was beginning to think i was going insane.i am post op by 14 weeks.i had aortic valve replacement on nov 9th 2009.i had a tissue valve.i get the same thumping in my throat and my heartbeat is so loud especially when i breathe in deeply.it was beginning to scare me.i was constantly thinking that the surgery had failed in some way.i still feel slightly breathless even when im basically doing nothing or even reading my son a story.its awful.is anyone else still breathless? thanx again everyone.i feel much better now after reading everyones messages.

Jodie, I am 10 months post op and I felt exactly how you are feeling right now. I thought there was a mulfunction inside my new aortic valve. I also have the tissue valve(porcine). I have skipped beats up to this day and have some irregular beats especially in early mornigns. Two weeks ago I went for a ct angio and two days ago I went for a follow up at my cardiologist. The result was good. My heart is normal in size and no signs of aneurysm. The sutures are in place. I still don’t know why i have the skipped beats. Soon I will be sent something to monitor my heart for a month.I was also breathless for many months but that went away. Hearing your hearbeat is certainly annoying but i’m getting used to it. It happens especially if you are thin boned. I also feel the thumping in my throat and it vibrates in my teeth. I am guessing that most of us have the same symptoms. I practiced deep breathing and exhaling very slowly and it helps a lot. I also take magnesium twice a day as what my cardiologist has told me. Take care. It takes time and patience. Whenever I am very frustrated I come to this website and read everyone’s comments over and over. Knowing that I am not alone makes me feel better.

hi jodi.
i am now 12 months post op had mechanical aortic valve i have just started to get some releif from the thumping in my chest and throat.i read so many times that the recovery period was three months but i think its more like 12 months.i am not breathless any more and can do all things as normal.however i am still very aware of my heart beat but my cardio says that my heart function is normal. i know exactly how you feel dont worry it gets better. keep well.

I had my aortic valve replaced with a mechanical valve 2 years ago, and I have not had one moment or inner peace since. I am a very skinny person, so I don’t have the extra “padding” that can quiet a noisy valve. My valve is so noisy other people hear it when I am in a meeting, my wife hears it when we are sitting on the couch or lying in bed.

Due to this, I get no sleep. I was hoping I would get used to it, like I would a noisy watch. But no, I have not. There is something unnatural about constantly being aware that your heart is beating. I don’t think the brain knows how to compute this consciously, since the heartbeat is an autonomous function and one doesn’t ever think of it. But I am forced to hear it, which causes me to think about it more…..it becomes a vicious cycle. It’s 1 am now, I need to be up in a few hours and I have tried to fall asleep twice already with no luck. I lay there, dwelling on every heartbeat. It is like I am listening and waiting for it to suddenly stop. As I lay there, my brain does funny things with time. I will hear/feel my heartbeat and then not hear it for what seems like an eternity. I wonder if it will ever beat again, or if it just finished up with it’s last beat. I worry about my wife waking up next to a cold, dead husband. I worry about work, things I am in the middle of that others will have to take over….and after what seems like forever there it is…click click….click click…and I get to live on. This process repeats itself over and over until I get up and sneak downstairs to sit upright on the couch and watch t.v. I usually find myself there in the morning, racing upstairs to turn off my alarm clock all the time thinking “did I get enough shut-eye to make it through the day?”

I too had aortic aneurysm repair and a St. Jude aortic valve installed Jan. ’08. I was 58 yr., playing tournament softball so was in decent physical condition. Had no time to prep for surgery…3 days after ekg I was downtown Los Angeles at Kaiser. I am over 2 years post op and my heart still ticks loudly especially at night which makes it so hard to sleep. My husband can hear it. He’s a luv and lets me keep the tv on until I fall asleep. I also take sleep aids 3-4 nights a week which helps tons. The only explanation I’ve received is because the valve is a composite material it makes a tick every time it opens. I lost the hearing in one ear due to the surgery so sleeping on the ‘good ear’ helps a little. Listening to every beat can be such a mind game…can hear when it skips a beat, etc. Do you ever get used to this?

HI CATHY IM NOT SURE IF I WILL EVER GET USE TO THE NOISE. ITS DIFICULT. BUT WORSE THAN THE NOISE IS THE THUNPING HEART BEAT IN MY NECK AND THROAT ITS NOT THERE ALL THE TIME BUT VERY ANOYING WHEN IT IS. DO YOU ALSO GET THIS THUMPING HEART BEAT. ?

Hello everyone. I am now 3 months post op from mechanical valve surgery. I still can hear the ticking and feel the thumping from time to time, but for the most part i am starting to get used to it i guess. I started playing golf and a few weeks ago just to get outside and get some exercise. I was suprised that i wasnt as sore as i figured to be after i played. The only real problems i have left from surgery now is that for bout past month and half i have blood and protein in my urine. This never showed up until after surgery and it has me worried. They told me it was a UTI and i was on antibotics for a month but the blood and protein is still present. A UA now showed no infection. They doctors seem to think it may be caused my medication i am taking. I take warfarin, sotalol, Diltiazem, and Simvastatin. I dont know if this could be the problem but i have no pain really. Just wondering if anyone else has had similar problems like this with medications. Thank you

I am 6 weeks out of my aortic valve replacement. I had it repaired 16 years ago and replaced 6 weeks ago. The last week I have been able to feel my heartbeat alot more. especially when laying down. The distel acending aorta had a graph sewn in as well so maybe that’s why I am feeling my heartbeat more. I let the doctor know this and he did not seem to think it was an issue. To make sure it is staying in rythum, he said in 3 months to come back to wear a heart monitor for 24 hours so it can be anilzed. I am still in the process of getting my BP under control as it has went up over the last 3 weeks. We are trying to increase the BP meds.

Yeah, lots of thumping going on in there! My doctor didn’t seem to think it was an issue either. No further tests planned just a routine cardiology visit every 6 months. Did you also get the St. Jude valve?

I had my arotic valve replacement October 5th 2009, Mine is a bovine valve. I am now six months from my surgery. I too can feel and hear my heart beating and feel it in my neck as well. It does seem that it has gotten better over time. My cardiologist advised that your body and brain gets used to it and then it gets better. I am wondering if any one is having any anxiety symptoms, with the valve replacement. My anxiety comes and goes as well. Just wondering if there are many who are experiencing this, as well as some cardiac depression.

Hey Claudia. I have a mechanical valve. Im about 4 months removed from my surgery and i am finally used to the thumping and clicking sound. I can still fill and hear it pretty good at night when im laying in bed but ive learned to ignore it for the most part. And ABSOUTLY i have had anxiety symptoms. It is getting a little better now but it was bad for awhile. I always thought the worse bout everything and would make myself think i had something wrong with me. You are not alone on that and i have also had some depression i think its quite normal from what i hear.

I hear my heart beating (double bypass two weeks ago). It almost sounds like they took some of the “Insulation” out so the sound isn’t muffled as much as it used to be; however it does eventually return to the quiet mode. I don’t understand either.

So, almost seven months one (aortic valve replaced on 14 October with a Carbomedics Artificial Valve), and I can still hear the clicking very clearly. At night time, I have to lie in a certain position to be able to go to sleep. Turn the wrong way,and the clicking is loud enough to keep me awake. All this will still taken some getting used to.
As for the arrhythmias, have had a 24ECG done. Shows intermittent ventricular ectopics, and instances of left bundle branch block. Cardiologist not concerned by this and does not expect to review me regularly, and GP also says it’s nothing to worry about. I suppose now I’ve had all the test, and a cardiologist I trust look at this, I’m fine about these “skipped beats”, although I still find them annoying.

What a relief to read these comments. I thought it might be abnormal to not only hear but feel my heartbeat since I have fully recovered from Surgery at the beginning of the year, I can stop worrying at nights now!

Whew….. I was worried 10 weeks post surgery today! Aortice dissection with replacement of bicuspid valve…St Jude. I had rapid beats 2 weeks post and take amioderone for a couple of months more. Hopefully they will reamin gone as the drug is quite toxic over time. I do feel the high beats described by the original post. I actually can say that mine are exactly as described! I hope to get used to this as i bothered my “Doc” alot in the beginning!!!!!!!!! Thanks

hi guys
Had my aorta valve replaced with a mechanical valve about 5 weeks ago, i to can hear a ticking which doesnt bother me as 2 much…..im more concerned about the fluttering feeling i get now and again which is most common about 4inches above my belly button and the middle of my chest/throat…im only on warafin and nothing else…..can anybody explain the fluttering?do i need to worry?….im due back to see my surgeon in 4 weeks…
Thanks dan

I have the same experience.
Also sometimes so hard (not fast) that it actually hurts.
The most of the time, I hardly notice it except at night.

I had my surgery 8 years ago, I was put on atenalol to help regulate my rapid heart beat just days after surgery,not a pleasant feeling, and yes I do feel my heart pounding quite loudly sometimes…. its good to know its not unusual, thankyou.

Hello. I just had my aortic valve, root, and archh replaced about eight weeks ago. I have had some issues. However, one of my current concerns has to deal with changes in my heart beat. Some days. I have a quiet tick tick and at other times I can really hear it and feel it pounding inside my chest, especially when breathing in. Anone else have this? I have a saint judes valve

Wow I just got back from my cariolgist and he acted as if I was crazy. I have arotic valve replacement (mechanical) and and aortic root replaced 8 weeks ago. My heart is pounding in my chest and throat so hard that I was convinced there must have been something seriously wrong with my heart after surgery. Thank God this seems to have a logical explanation and I am not just loosing my mind. You guys are the best. Thanks for your comments.
Jim

Kansas City, Missouri
Reading all of the comments makes me remember when I had my second aorta valve replacement with a St. Jude valve, the first one was a human valve. First surgery with the human valve lasted 5 years, June 23 , 08 is when I got the St. Jude Valve. It still keeps me awake, I sleep with the TV on and it don’t always help. I also had blood coming out of my penis before my wife and I was intimate. The doctor said I could have hemoraging up in bladder or prostate, had more testing and they inserted a tube scope up my penis and my wife heard me screaming in the waiting room. They couldn’t finish the test. Do not recommend that test. Come to find out it was the coumadin, I don’t like this because I bleed for a long time when I get cut or injured. I lost my construction job after surgery. Back to the ticking I found that sleeping upright a little bit with the tv on helps some. Not always. I would not recommend a metal valve for anyone the human valve I had none of these symptoms and didn’t have to take any medicine. My body just wore the other one out, but even with this St. Jude valve I still feel week and exhausted, most of the time. I was born with a heart murmur, and never smoked and drank occasionally. One of my worst fears and worries is the doctor stated that if the valve sticks closed or stops working, I would die quickly. This valve doesn’t work like a human valve because its mechanical and a human valve would show weakness or leakage where the doctors could hear it. Before any surgeries my heart was swishing from the regurgitation of blood not pumping correctly. My wife heard this same sound when my first human replacement went bad. So the doctor recommended this mechanical valve, I did not want this valve at all but they highly recommended it because the other valves could only last up to 10 years on me. So they convinced me but I still didn’t want it. I didn’t want to be on coumadin the rest of my life.

Hope you find this information helpful. Your heart friend Mike.

Jason, I have the same thing. I had a St. Judes valve put in in March along with an aneurysm and root re-attached with graph. When I first had it my heart pounded very loud, felt like it was pounding out of my chest! It does get somewhat quieter or maybe I’ve just gotten used to it. Its not as noticeable now. Has anyone ever been checked for Marfan’s syndrome? I was recently diagnosed with a defective gene and had another test that I’m waiting for the results which would be a positive for Marfans. One of the characteristics of Marfans is dissection of the aorta with a structurally weak aorta. Has anyone else inquired about this? Thanks!

i was very interested in reading some of these comments. I recently had my Starr Edwards Aortic valve replaced with a St. Jude mechanical valve and also aortic root surgery. The surgery was done in early september of 2010. Recently I have been feeling the same hard heartbeat in my throat and upper sternum area just like Josh when I take a deep breadth. When I exhale, it stops. When I don’t take a deep breadth it is fine. While I have read many of these comments, I have yet to read a medical explanation for what is going on and whether this is normal and whether it will subside. I would appreciate a response from someone who has spoken with their surgeon or cardiologist about this issue. I plan to do the same.

I did too, 5 months after my aortic valve replacement, and the feelings seem to move around, also I get a sensation as though there are small needles prickling me around the sternum from the inside.
Not terribly painful, but it does stop me in my tracks sometimes.

HOw come the doctors are baffold about the pounding of heart beats and when you can feel it in your neck, I feel it in my fingers too. Theres so many of us who experience this, it seems more common than not. I am 4 months out from surgery. I also feel a thumping when I inhale alot, My cardiologist listened and said it was my ribs moving, not fully healed. I had both mitral and aortic tissue replacement. I’m 73. Cardiac rehab is really great, I’m surprised how many people go. I’m so glad I found this web site, its been a huge help. Nobody told me what recovery was like.

Aortic valve replaced and anuerysm graft with St. Jude April 2009. Same pounding, could see it on my chest. White noise at night is the best option, I used a small fan. I hardly notice now. But recently have woken to rapid heart beat from a deep slumber(2am) – subsides after 10 minutes. Has happened sporadically the last 2 months, probably 5 or 6 times. No flutter or skip, just rapid, 110 – 120/ min. Anyone else?

I had my Aortic Valve replaced 2 1/2 weeks ago ( heavily calcified valve leading to Critical Stenosis, Valve was about 25% of what it should be ) with a St Jude using the Bentall Procedure (A Bentall procedure is a cardiac surgery operation involving composite graft replacement of the aortic valve, aortic root and ascending aorta, with re-implantation of the coronary arteries into the graft – Wikipedia).

I was home for a few days when I had to go back to the hospital because my heart rate went up to 160 to 180. They kept me in until it normalized in about two or so hours, and since then it is about 82 BPM. Blood pressure was normal and there where no other symptoms during the event. I was told by the surgeon that this is something that happens and not to worry, unless it continues. It was the only time it happened.

I am also experiencing the loud heart beat. I love it, makes me feel so alive. I can feel it in my ears which makes it really easy to check the rate.

The surgeon explained it this way. He said that the heart was pumping harder when I had the stenosis to make up for the restriction and need for more blood and as it is muscle memory, it will take a bit of time for the heart to readjust and not beat so hard.

The other thing I have been experiencing is night sweats.

Back in December I went to the doctor for lightheartedness after I was over a cold and he immediately sent me for an Ultrasound. From that date until surgery was 4 weeks.

Yes, I had my surgery 7 months ago. Had the same experience of a fast heart beat,very scary. I was put on a low dose of Lopressor and that helped so much. It beat hard also. At this time, its settled down but every once in while I can feel the pounding. Every month that goes by, it feels more normal. I’m thankful for this blog, had no idea what recovery was like.

Wow, there is so much feeling here. I am a 47 yr/old female in need of an aortic valve replacement. I have been trying to figure out what is best for “me” not just what the doctor prefers. I had already decided against a mechanical valve due to the sound I’d heard it makes, but also because I did not want to take coumadin for life as I am also very anemic due to being such a good bleeder. So, after reading all of the posts here, I am wondering if it would be better to just let the valve take it’s natural course and not have it replaced at all. I am thinking of quality of life issues and it seems most here have suffered a great deal after a surgery that was supposed to make their life better. If given the choice now, would any of you go back and not have had the surgery? Also, I didn’t see it here but did any of you have a minimally invasive procedure or one of the new transcatheter valve replacements? I am going to have to make some serious decisions in the next few weeks, and though I know the doctor has my best interest in mind, I’d like to hear from those who have actually had to live with the results of a surgery like this.

I did not let nature take its course. I would be dead if I had and that is a cost I am not willing to knowingly accept. The louder heart beat, the blood tests and the blood thinners are just a minor inconvinience compared to the alternative.

Three and a half weeks after the surgery I went back to work and have been working since.

Just nine weeks after my heart surgery, I bought a bicycle today and rode it away from the store. I was given two to four months to live in November. Everything now is bonus time.

To kjackson:
In response to your post, I just want to share my experience. I’m a 41 year old female with an aortic valve replacement, 3 months post-op. I worked on a cardiac unit for almost 10 years and watched many people go through a variety of circumstances. I initially wanted a tissue valve for the same reasons, did not want a lifetime of meds, etc. As I reflected on my experiences, I talked with a few friends that also had valve surgery. I finally concluded that I would use the mechanical valve for several reasons.
One reason is that the mechanical valves last 20+ years, compared to the tissue valves that are expected to last 5 to 10 years with some that have a 15 year potential. I have a male friend with a tissue valve in his 40′s and at the 5 year mark he had to replace it. I love the idea of reducing the risk of additional prospective surgeries. I suffer from bleeding disorders but have not had any issues with blood thinners. It’s actually such a minimal change in blood clotting and I have had no issues with bleeding or bruising since the warfarin started. I did worry that I would miss doses but it fits in with my daily vitamin routine well. I also worried about the frequency of testing after surgery. It’s starts out with some frequency, 1 to 2 times a week. After a short time they can set you up with a once a month visit for a finger poke to check your thinning levels. It’s quick and easy.
The next issue is the clicking sound. It’s not so bad, you get accustomed to it quickly and the sound diminishes over time. It is a sound of a renewed life…. and such a sweet sound it is! I have 3 teenagers, and life is extremely busy. But it was worth it. I wouldn’t be here today without surgery. It was very close, the valve failed very quickly for me. I wasn’t allowed to wait until after the holidays, I had surgery 3 days after talking to the doctor. I had surgery 5 days before Christmas and was home on the 23rd. I walked the same day I had surgery (great meds!).
I love my mechanical valve. I sound like a Timex watch when I exercise, and I’ve come to a point I love it, wouldn’t want it the other way around. I’ve had a few minor set-backs, but it was temporary. Whatever you chose to do, don’t wait too long long. I have a new perspective on life, and I’m thankful for it. Open heart surgery turned out to be the best thing that could have happened to me. I thought the worst at first, but my life has never been better!!! Good Luck to you!!

Oh my gosh Chris, I could have written the exact same message….except that I am 47 and 18 months post op.
I’ve got three teens-20 yr olds, tell people that I tick like a fine Swiss watch or Timex and had less than a month from referral to cardio surgeon to surgery, have had little problems with warfarin or bleeding, and walked that first day following surgery (longest walk I’ve ever taken…lol) but yes the drugs helped.
I didn’t have a choice between mechanical or tissue, but I do know that right now thinking that in another five years or so having to go through it again would not be something I’d want to face.

And I too had a drastic change in the “pounding” of my heart, but i guess that’s because it was working better/differently, and i was ultra aware of it. It still does sometimes, especially if i’m laying on my side or stomach but i’ve learned its normal and it’s a good thing!
best of luck

I have had 3 heart surgeries since I was born. Once when I was 14 months old (I don’t really know what they did) another in June 1998 when I was 17 they replaced my aortic valve with a tissue one. The tissue valve lasted me until October 2010, so I got 12 years out of it. In June 2010 my Cardiologist decided I needed it replaced as I was having quite a few difficulties. He “said” he was in contact with the Doctor’s in Vancouver, BC but I never heard anything. October 8, 2010 I woke up at 3am and I couldn’t see out of the bottom of my right eye, I went to Emerg and they admitted me thinking I had a blood clot shoot to my eye. I was then Air Ambulanced down to Vancouver and had my heart surgery on October 22, 2010 they did the Bentall Procedure which took 10 hours to complete as I had a really large anyerisum on my aorta. I chose a mechanical valve because I want to have the least amount of surgeries I possibly can now. I can hear my valve ticking, which doesn’t bother me, but I can feel my heart beating against my chest and that is really quite irritating. I feel it all the time except for when I lay down or lean forward, I don’t feel it as much. I have been to see my GP numerous times and they have put me back on Metroplol (as my blood pressure was fairly high) and that helped a bit, but I can still feel it. I’m glad to see that I’m not the only one who worries about everything The only other thing about the Mechanical Valve is that I am on Warfarin forever now and I am unable to play the sports I used to or have kids, but I would rather that then have to have surgery again in the nearer future.

I was somewhat surprised to hear from some folks who have had tissue valves about the ticking sound as well. Some of the stated benefit of tissue valves is that they are quieter. I that true?

I have found the comments very reassuring as I suffer with the heart pounding as well following aortic stenosis surgery with a tissue valve eight weeks ago. When I reported it to my doctor she said it was a strong heartbeat but couldn’t find anything abnormal. She prescribed Lorazepam 1 mg to ‘take the edge off it’. It happens mostly at night, yet there are occasions when I barely notice it. I tend to listen to the radio when in bed and that usually helps. It will nearly always wake me around 5.30 am and start pounding straight away as soon as I move or get out of bed to go to the bathroom. I have had an ecocardioscan last week and am due to see the cardiac registrar in just over a week when I hope to discuss it with him. It worried me a lot to begin with but it would appear that it is quite common and just part of the process. Hopefully it will get quieter in time.

My husband had aortic valve replacement almost a year ago and complains of the same thing, almost verbatim. When he complains of this, I can feel his hear pounding if I touch his side. His physicians don’t have an explanation and his tests are normal. He’s lost over 20 pounds, so clearly has less cushioning. We were wondering if this is normal, so these posts are very helpful in calming our fears.

You got that right ! It sure bothered me for months afterward. Finlly went away like a lot of other odd sensations so if there is a next time I know what to expect. Hope you’re feeling better !

Hi Guys and Gals,

I am 48 and had a porcine aortic tissue valve replacement with dacron replacement of portion of ascending aorta. I am 3 weeks out from surgery and also note a very strong heart beat in my upper chest and also can hear it in my ears. I read somewhere that some nerve endings that had never been sensitized to the heartbeat are, for the first time due to minute changes in your heart placement due to surgery, now attuned to this beating and after months these nerves become sensitized to the rhythm. Not to worry! Why porcine at my age? I’ve been vegetarian for 20 years and very active, couldn’t go the mechanical route with blood thinners. Green leafy veggies and coumadin don’t mix well. My Emory surgeon is convinced that by 2022 or whenever I need a new valve, non-invasive methods, including robotic will be standard and routine. Anyway, doing great, no pain meds now, though still a bit sore in the sternum area. Take care amigos!

I am 49 yo female that just discovered a month ago that I had severe aortic stenosis. On July 1st I had a St. Jude Medical Carbon fiber mechanical heart valve installed in my heart. The surgery went well, hardly any pain, and I was up and walking two days post op! I am not concerned about the lifetime of blood thinners because you CAN eat green stuff on coumadin, you just have to eat the same amount every day. The stenosis had me feeling extreme fatigue for the past three years, unfortunately the doctors attributed it to depression rather than heart failure. It is extremely important for patients to ASK their Dr. to listen to their heart when they have a checkup. I suffered for several years until an young ENT doctor made the time to listen to my heart; he discovered the abnormal heartbeat and sent me to the cardiologist and finally the surgery that has saved my life. Every day above ground is a good day! Praise God!

Hi, my name is Rachel. I’m 30 years old and I have have had two aortic valve replacements. The first I had 10 years ago, and the second just a month back. I’m still going through the healing process, which seems very different to last time.

My heartbeat is most certainly louder at night, and more so than normally. It beats so loud I can’t sleep at first and its most disturbing. However, I have the comfort of knowing that it’s working!

I tend to do things to distract my thoughts, or literally I will tap or scratch the pillow, so it’s louder than the beat, crazy I know. And yes, I too feel and hear it more when I breath in.

I try to remember last time, I try to compare the two. But I remember having these worries and fears last time, and that one by one they got better. So although you feel it now, it will get less and soon you’ll not notice the difference!

Thanks R

Josh just want to let you know that I’m on my second valve repair, replacement surgery. I’m going through the same thing as you are, same positions everything, and let me tell you it is one of the most difficult things to get used to. I thought I would have no problem with it this time but I was wrong. My heart had gone into afib while in the hospital and had to have my heart shocked to get back into sinus rhythm. So almost every time I wake up it feels like I’m back in it because my heart feels like it’s going to come out of my chest. So i get my bp machine and check out rhythm and everything is perfect but my mind wants to believe otherwise. Now I’m much more at ease after reading your statement Your statement was extremely comforting to hear since it was something I have not ever asked my cardiologist. Hope all is going well and take care

Had my valve replacement surgery almost 3 months ago. I made it through the surgery just fine, was up and walking on 2nd day. It wasn’t untill i went home that I noticed the “sound”. Heartbeating so loud it keeps me awake and the clicking. I too asked the doctors and they say the same thing “it sounds great”. I am so glad that I came upon this site. It is a comfort to know that what i am feeling and hearing is normal. I was sure that there had to be something wrong. Just last week I told someone I wishe I’d never had the surgery. Knowing what I feel is common is a relief. I went back to work three days ago and although I get tired quikly I no longer get short of breath or sweaty for no reason, huge problem before surgery. I was given the St. Jude and will be on coumadin for life. I will sleep better tonight knowing I am not alone.

Liza- I had and still have the same sensation and my surgery was over one year ago! It is really noticable when I lie on my left side. I just think of it as a reminder that my heart is working alot better than it was! FYI-I have the St. Jude also.

Thanks for posting this question Josh and to all for sharing. I’m 47 and had aortic valve replacement and aortic root enlargement (to accommodate the required diameter of the St. Jude mechanical valve) in June 2011 so am almost 5 months out. Am still in cardiac rehab which I recommend to all who have had a cardiac event.

I noticed the pounding of my heart while in the hospital and it’s the same now. Doctors haven’t been concerned about me having this sensation and often remark that “it’s loud” when they listen to my chest. I’m on the thin side and feel my heart beat intensely, in addition to hearing it beat and the clicking of the valve. All of these sensations have been difficult to deal with and to feel calm while experiencing. I’ve found it can take me 15 minutes or longer to quiet my body and put these sensations in the background enough so that I can meditate. Falling asleep has been hard, am still sleeping mostly upright. The only way I can fall asleep is with white noise–I use an ocean waves sounds app on my smartphone which works well.

For most people, taking a deep breath is a relaxing thing and calming, but since my surgery taking a deep breath triggered two sensations–sternal pain and an increased heart rate. The sternal pain is lingering but has continued to subside. But getting used to heart rate rapidly increasing when I take a deep breath is bizarre and not so comforting. I hope this sensation eases as I heal more.

I had aflutter and afib episodes about a month after surgery which didn’t respond well to rhythm control drugs so had to be cardioverted in the hospital. That procedure worked well (though a bit scary to go through). Skipped beat sensations which I understand to be PVCs are something I experience almost daily, usually when my heart rate goes below 80 bpm. It’s an unnerving sensation and sometimes can make me gasp a little if the beat following the skipped beat is particularly forceful. Doctors are not concerned about these skipped beats and continue to tell me my heart is working well (YAY!) I was also told that most likely my heart had learned to work harder than it needed to to pump blood through the calcified valve. Now that the valve has no obstructions, the heart muscles may still be squeezing harder than they need to and need to adapt to needing to work less hard, which it should do, in time. I’ll have a follow-up echocardiagram in a few months so will get a full assessment of how well the valves are working then.

I am 18 months post surgery for aortic valve replacement and my heart pounds so hard it makes my headache. I am told to expect this, but my blood pressure also goes extremely high until my heart calms down, then everything goes back to normal. The least exertion I do makes this happen and it is very scary. Do others experience this and do they get told it is to be expected?