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Diagnosis: Mitral Regurgitation, Mitral Stenosis

Member Since: January 16, 2020

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Karen ShirIey posted an update

6 years ago (January 16, 2020)

Recovery is ongoing. Some days are better than others. This week's challenge is catching a cold. Coughing and sneezing hurts the sternum. Any others with suggestions or experience with this 6 weeks post op.

Marie Myers

So sorry you have to deal with a cold post surgery! I would suggest staying on an over-the-counter- antihistamine to minimize the sneezing (If not contraindicated). Lots of hot liquids like soup and tea also. Hope you feel better soon!

Karen ShirIey

Thanks for the advice. I hadn't thought of the antihistamines. I look them up to see if I can take those. It's a bad cold on flu season this year...it's hard to avoid what's going around.

Marie Myers

Just got over a cold myself. I took an over the counter antihistamine (certirizine) and sometimes took a 25 mg diphenhydramine (Benadryl) at night, cuz it makes me sleepy.

Karen ShirIey

I could really see Benadryl being helpful. 🙂

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