Annie's Posts

it a shock to all of us when we hear we need open heart surgery! I never in my life thought that I would be a heart patient.. but, my genetics had a different opinion.. I had my aortic valve replaced last April I had a bicuspid valve.. its a journey but its doable and you will do great.. this is a great site for questions and encouragement.. besides my family this site got me through it.. if you have any ? Id be happy to answer.

I didn't have any sternum pain to speak of. I had mostly pain in back and shoulders felt like I had done a really hard workout the day before. They wont want you to do any strenuous work for about 4-6 week, no heavy lifting. But, if you have pain they will give you meds in the hospital.. After day one I was on Toradol and then just extra strength Tylenol.. sneezing and coughing is no fun, but you can get a pillow to squeeze with that.

Just had my surgery a little over 2 weeks ago and the pain was really not that bad. After just 5 days I was only on 6 Tylenols a day. Now I am not taking any medication except for an aspirin a day. The whole idea of OHS was freaking me out (you can read my journal) Now looking back at it, it was so easy that no surgery will ever scare me again. The only complain I have now is blurred vision, but it is too soon and I think it will go away. I am walking for a mile a day, doing light housekeeping, cooking, even went out shopping. I know exactly how you feel, but rest assured that it is not bad at all. You will do great! All the best.

Hi Annie, Wishing you a successful surgery and smooth recovery period. The sternal discomfort is truly minimal. Not once did I request medication for my sternum (but did take it when offered) Post surgery, you will be tempted to try to do more than instructed. Hug that pillow, take it easy, and let the sternum heal well. I can honestly say the biggest challenge for me was sleeping on my back for 6 weeks while the sternum healed.

I also was surprised by my need for surgery, this is a wonderful site to air concerns and get info from those that have gone through it. Family and friends can be well meaning but I totally get the idea that they don't realize what you are going through emotionally, I am right there with you. As an RN I was taught not to offer platitudes, but that is often what we hear. As I said I have found this site a safe and understanding place to voice your concerns, and it always helps to read the posts from those that have gone before us! Hang in there, will be praying for you. The waiting for me is hard my mitral valve repair is scheduled for April 11!