Alexander's Journal

Had aortic valve replacement as well as aortic aneurysm repair on Feb 21, 2017. Been recovering for the last three weeks at my parents home. Everything went really well, I was taking my first walk day 1 after surgery. Climbed two flights of stairs day 3 after surgery and was home day 4 post op. Most of the discomfort was the first few days, but really wasn't that bad while on pain meds and making sure I took them on time. When I got home I made sure I took walks with someone, did my breathing exercises, rest, and eat regularly everyday. It only took a few days home to start feeling more normal. There were a few days when food didn't taste so good due to the medication, but I regained taste once I stopped taking the narcotics and probably a couple other supplements I was given. So a couple things that bother me currently. My neck and back have stiffness/pain due to the position of my shoulders after surgery. So I try to sit and stand straight and take nice hot showers to relax the muscles that are tight. The second thing is I'm really sensitive to the feel of my heartbeat, haha. It was working so hard to push through the bad valve that it is very efficient now that it doesn't have to work so hard all the time. I am still getting used to it while I go to sleep, but it will eventually be less noticeable. I'm taking it a day at a time and try not to get frustrated while I'm limited in my activities. Having support is a huge help, but remember to take your time in the healing process and follow your doctors guidance.