Lan's Posts

Diagnosis: Mitral Regurgitation

Member Since: June 7, 2018

Send Lan a Note

My Posts

Lan Bui posted an update
7 years ago (July 16, 2018)
Hi- It has been 2.5mo since my OHS, I have been walking for about 1/2hr each day since 2 weeks after the surgery. I do not have SOB when I am walking but I find myself having SOB when I have a long conversation. Can someone please give me an... Read more.
Lan - I would highly recommend you enroll in cardiac rehab. They'll get you into an exercise routine that's appropriate for your level of recovery. They may even be able to explain why you have SOB when carrying on a long conversation. I think you'll enjoy the training!
Your surgeon and cardiologist should be able to answer when it is right in your situation. I am 9 weeks post-full sternotomy - my surgery was 5/14. In addition to walking, I rode a recumbent bike 8 days after surgery which was dr approved provided it didn't exercise the arms... Read more.
Thanks Susan & Valerie. I declined the rehab because I was doing so well minus the SOB. I have another appointment with my cardiologist this Thurs. I will revisit the rehab conversation again :)
Yes rehab really did the trick for me and continues to do so. They help with the breathing and exercise, you going on 14 weeks post op now and am able to go kayaking and hiking. Started driving June 1st.
Oh, gosh, I still get the SOB....if I walk fast and talk at the same time....if I walk uphill....on stairs....if I do a flamenco routine too many times in a row... This doesn't mean I can't do things or am not active, but there is definitely a different way I... Read more.
Lan Bui posted a photo
7 years ago (July 16, 2018)
2.5mo after OHS.
Pretty picture! Smile - surgery is behind you.
Lan Bui posted an update
8 years ago (June 14, 2018)
Hi- It's been 2 weeks now after my open heart surgery. My surgeon was able to REPAIR my mitral valve and I am thankful for that. Sometimes I feel like my heart is pounding out of my chest. The strong pounding would shake me and my vision while I am... Read more.
Anthony Fumo posted a similar question yesterday and received very encouraging and informative comments. Hope they help you as well😊
I had an MV repair and didn't have those symptoms, but your heart is adjusting to the increased blood flow, so it's probably not unusual to feel it pounding. It's important to inform your cardiologist of anything that seems odd.
Thanks, Diane. I have read Anthony's post and I wasn't sure if the strong heart beat would apply to a repair valve. Anthony had a replacement. Thanks, Susan and lucky you :) My first visit with the cardiac team is next Monday.
Hi Lan I had my aortic valve replaced on 29 January ( I went for a mechanical replacement) For the first few months my heart pounded particularly during the evening but now 5 months post op I very rarely hear or feel it. Stick in there, it will get better.
We're all a little different. For me, my heart was quiet for the first time after my MV repair. That felt weird too! It had been so loud, especially at night, before the repair.
I didn't have a repair but I do feel it beating strongly but to me it is comforting.
This is normal. Whether a repair or a replacement, your heart has been traumatised by surgery. It needs time to readjust as does the rest of your body. It needs time, and we are all in a hurry. This does not happen to everyone, but to many. You may find... Read more.
Rita Savelis- thanks for your comments here... I have a strong heartbeat too, and sometimes, esoecially when I am laying down, it vibrates my chest and feels strange!

Upcoming Surgeries

Helen Smith
Mitral Regurgitation
July 7, 2026
Maggie McCartney
Aortic Stenosis
July 9, 2026
Sandy Laine
Aortic Stenosis
July 14, 2026

Surgeon Finder

Heart Valve Surgeon Finder

Find and research over 1,500 patient-recommended heart valve surgeons.

Heart Hospital Map

Heart Hospital Map

Search for heart hospitals that specialize in heart valve treatment.