Maybe a strange question about digoxin and wet AMD.. I had mitral valve replacement and tricuspid repair last October, having four weeks in hospital with complications ...Read more
Maybe a strange question about digoxin and wet AMD.. I had mitral valve replacement and tricuspid repair last October, having four weeks in hospital with complications . One complication is post surgical atrial fibrillation which has been resistant to digoxin over the last six weeks. However last week I was diagnosed with wet macular degeneration in both eyes and will continue Anti Vegf injections four weekly in both eyes. It seems a coincidence that I start digoxin six weeks ago and after a few weeks get bleeds behind both eyes. Has anybody on here a similar story with digoxin?
Yumiko Ishida Hope you see improvements with afib and wet AMD soon! I was on digoxin for about a year and a half wh ... Read more
Yumiko Ishida Hope you see improvements with afib and wet AMD soon! I was on digoxin for about a year and a half while I had persistent afib but didn’t develop any eye issues. Is digoxin the only new med you are on?
Margaret Fielden Hi Yumiko, Yes digoxin was started about three weeks before I started noticing vision problems. I exp ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Hi Yumiko, Yes digoxin was started about three weeks before I started noticing vision problems. I expected the opthalmologist would say it was just a reaction to digoxin, so shocked when he said I have wet AMD in both eyes. I had been checked a month earlier with retinal scans when buying new lenses and the wet AMD wasn't present. I am being weaned off digoxin so I hope it slows down. I'm falling apart!
Yumiko Ishida Oh, no! It sounds like it’s one of those drugs with a very narrow therapeutic range and it could be ... Read more
Yumiko Ishida Oh, no! It sounds like it’s one of those drugs with a very narrow therapeutic range and it could be toxic at a certain point. Hope weaning off helps.
Margaret Fielden Thank you. It seems to be helping but I'll know more when I go for my review and second set of injec ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Thank you. It seems to be helping but I'll know more when I go for my review and second set of injections. I 've decided the eyes have to be on separate days, too blurry to see with all the drops, not good for an osteoporotic body to be floundering!
I had mitral valve replacement and tricuspid repair four months ago, with complications meaning a four week hospital stay. I developed Attial fibrillation after ...Read more
I had mitral valve replacement and tricuspid repair four months ago, with complications meaning a four week hospital stay. I developed Attial fibrillation after the surgery and had three failed cardioversions. I have had digoxin for 3 weeks now to slow the rate of Afib. My surgeon called and wants me to have another cardioversion attempt with, he says, a 50% chance of success. I had three spinal breaks in 2024 with nerve damage to bladder and bowel. The previous cardioversion exacerbated the nerve damage and I had neurogenic bowel problems again for some weeks afterwards. This has resolved and I'm uneasy about another cardioversion triggering it again. I'm still having physiotherapy for the spinal injury. I'd be grateful to hear about peoples' experience of cardioversion.
Yumiko Ishida Sorry to hear cardioversions have not been successful for you. When I had afib I got mixed advice. Mo ... Read more
Yumiko Ishida Sorry to hear cardioversions have not been successful for you. When I had afib I got mixed advice. Most doctors I saw seemed to consider it something worth trying, but not a long term solution. More than one said amiodarone works better. At the beginning I still had a clot, so until the clot was gone I was not a candidate for either, and was on digoxin and propranolol to control the heart rate. Eventually I convinced one of the doctors to do a cardioversion when I was getting a TEE, and luckily it worked. Otherwise, the options I was given were amiodarone, ablation, or maze procedure during an OHS. If maze were an option for you they probably would have done it during your valve surgery. Has anyone discussed amiodarone as an option with you? It may go by a different name where you live.
Robert Miller Is your main issue with afib or also high pulse rate? If you already had 3 cardioversions to address ... Read more
Robert Miller Is your main issue with afib or also high pulse rate? If you already had 3 cardioversions to address afib and it never went away, I am not sure another one will help. You might consider talking to one or two electrophysiologists. They might recommend ablation. It's my understanding that most people can live just fine with afib. There is an increased risk of strokes but that can be addressed with surgery and/or blood thinners. But don't take my word for it.
Margaret Fielden Hi Umiko and Robert, Thank you for your messages. My Afib has been constant since OHS, I didn't have ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Hi Umiko and Robert, Thank you for your messages. My Afib has been constant since OHS, I didn't have it before so the maze wasn't considered during surgery. My surgeon gives cardioversion a 50% chance and then would proceed to referring to electro physiology for ablation. I am being weaned off digoxin due to eye issues possibly related to it. Amiodorone isn't an option for me since it brought my heart rate dangerously low in ICU. I am hoping that my heart rate settles and I'm OK on bisoprolol for afib control. I take riveroxiban blood thinners so just need my heart rate 70 to 80 according to my cardiologist. Most of the time it's 80 to 80 which doesn't seem bad to me!
Yumiko Ishida Hope you find a good balance with your meds and be able to manage your afib. My resting heart rate is ... Read more
Yumiko Ishida Hope you find a good balance with your meds and be able to manage your afib. My resting heart rate is still 80-90, too, and it’s not bad.
Margaret Fielden Thank you Yumiko, I think my heart rate is steadier without digoxin, at 80-90 it seems OK. I hope you ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Thank you Yumiko, I think my heart rate is steadier without digoxin, at 80-90 it seems OK. I hope you are keeping as well as possible
Richard Munson Margaret, what is a pot garden. Must be a local phrase. My demented mind assumed you were growing pot ... Read more
Richard Munson Margaret, what is a pot garden. Must be a local phrase. My demented mind assumed you were growing pot.
Margaret Fielden Not quite Richard! Just growing winter flowers in terracotta pots so I can reach them!!
Richard Munson Thanks for clarification. Smoking not good after heart surgery.
Ana Brusso Oh Richard my dear brother you made me laugh. 😄
Suzette Schear Pansies are hearty flowers amazing hybrid to have flowers this time of year. Had to bring all my pot ... Read more
Suzette Schear Pansies are hearty flowers amazing hybrid to have flowers this time of year. Had to bring all my pots in . (Richard no smoking ones) Glad you went outside walking to see them. Hopefully you are getting out more and those sores are healing.
Margaret Fielden I have been increasing walking, not super far but more each day. Sores are healing nicely. Still on a ... Read more
Margaret Fielden I have been increasing walking, not super far but more each day. Sores are healing nicely. Still on antibiotics for another week for pneumonia which has been hanging around. There were heavy woodsmoke fumes in the air today- I suspect someone is burning painted wood, not nicecfor lunds with atelectasis. . So back inside but walking much better round the house. Looking at Christmas decorations and thinking what not to usd this year!
Suzette Schear I didn’t take my big manger out it’s one piece and I’m afraid my tiger aka Mr. Cone head will g ... Read more
Suzette Schear I didn’t take my big manger out it’s one piece and I’m afraid my tiger aka Mr. Cone head will get stuck. I brought the little one out and my favorite candle
Margaret Fielden I have two sheep, life size, under a star. They were going to have a manger but not this year. Hope M ... Read more
Margaret Fielden I have two sheep, life size, under a star. They were going to have a manger but not this year. Hope Mr Cone head is coping and news is good?
Well, I have made to discharge after four weeks in Papworth Hospital. I leave with a few issues like Afib, which may resolve, and a temperature spike which... Read more
Well, I have made to discharge after four weeks in Papworth Hospital. I leave with a few issues like Afib, which may resolve, and a temperature spike which does not show up on blood cultures yet. But , I am here. Glad to be alive and very grateful for all the support of Papworth Hospital which helped me fight on. So a long car journey this morning and back home to start recovery. Thank you for the support this group has given to me. God's blessing on all of you at every part of your journey
Marcus Krauss So glad to hear you're finally getting to go home!
James Roberts Great to hear you're on your way home. Take it easy and hope your recovery continues. I did have afib ... Read more
James Roberts Great to hear you're on your way home. Take it easy and hope your recovery continues. I did have afib for about a month or 2 after my first op and it soon subsided.
Pamela Gregory Glad you are finally able to head home! Make sure to stop periodically and walk around during your t... Read more
Pamela Gregory Glad you are finally able to head home! Make sure to stop periodically and walk around during your travel ride home
Rose Madura So happy that you are able to finally go home.
Valerie Allen They recommended to me riding in the backseat with a small pillow between the seatbelt and your chest ... Read more
Valerie Allen They recommended to me riding in the backseat with a small pillow between the seatbelt and your chest. Not sure if it’s the same there, just a thought. Best wishes!!
Margaret Fielden Happy to be home but hadn't realised how weak I would feel. Just hope a little strength comes tomor... Read more
Margaret Fielden Happy to be home but hadn't realised how weak I would feel. Just hope a little strength comes tomorrow.
Grace Mason Welcome home Margaret! Eat plenty of protein and get some much deserved rest with no midnight visits ... Read more
Grace Mason Welcome home Margaret! Eat plenty of protein and get some much deserved rest with no midnight visits from the nurse ❤️
Margaret Fielden Wow, I slept so much better last night! Lost strength in my legs for standing as wxhausted by the jou ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Wow, I slept so much better last night! Lost strength in my legs for standing as wxhausted by the journey, some interesting moments when on the wrong height chair trying to find a solution to stand! Good to know your Afib subsided James. Hope all goes smoothly for the future. Thank you all, God bless
Well that was a surprising day. I was going to be discharged from Papworth tomorrow after 31/2 weeks here. A lovely doctor took an interest I why I was still ...Read more
Well that was a surprising day. I was going to be discharged from Papworth tomorrow after 31/2 weeks here. A lovely doctor took an interest I why I was still breathless, his ultrasound showed two little bags trying to inflate in pools. So right pleural effusion drained 1.35 litres so far. Left lung gets the drain tomorrow. So, I'm here a while longer.
Richard Munson Hang in there. You will be home for xmas we hope and pray.
Kimberly Eisenhut I am glad they were being proactive and found the problem and are fixing it! That is actually good n... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut I am glad they were being proactive and found the problem and are fixing it! That is actually good news and you will go home and not have to deal with the issue after being discharged. Hope it goes smoothly and it is taken care of and you get to go home soon Keep us posted
James Roberts Sorry to hear that but at least it sounds like they’re getting to the bottom of things.
Margaret Fielden Thank you all. It was an uncomfortable night as the drain sits on my previous spinal fracture damage. ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Thank you all. It was an uncomfortable night as the drain sits on my previous spinal fracture damage. I think the right lung has a deeper 'breathe'. .now Left lung drained this morning
Rita Savelis Alas, pleural effusions (liquid in the lining of the lungs) can be a side effect of heart valve surge ... Read more
Rita Savelis Alas, pleural effusions (liquid in the lining of the lungs) can be a side effect of heart valve surgery. I had 4 effusions drained while still in hospital. I always felt great afterwards because suddenly I had more energy. Take care.
Rose Madura I also had a pleural effusion and like Rita felt better afterwards. Hang in there Margaret. ❤️ ... Read more
Rose Madura I also had a pleural effusion and like Rita felt better afterwards. Hang in there Margaret. ❤️🩹💪
Margaret Fielden Hoping for good outcome for the left lung, going down at 4. 1.3 litres from the right, much better ou ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Hoping for good outcome for the left lung, going down at 4. 1.3 litres from the right, much better out.
Sue Maize Sorry you have to experience this Margaret—I remember them watching for it for me because I had 2 c ... Read more
Sue Maize Sorry you have to experience this Margaret—I remember them watching for it for me because I had 2 consecutive surgeries and there was a real concern of pleural effusion with surgery #2….praying you’ll feel much better soon! 🙏🏻❤️🩹
Suzette Schear Praying hard they get this under control and you’ll be able to be released soon
Margaret Fielden Thank you everyone. I am breathing a bit better and walking g a little. Still an underling infection... Read more
Margaret Fielden Thank you everyone. I am breathing a bit better and walking g a little. Still an underling infection so more blood cultures today. Maybe I will go home next week
Well, I am hoping to make it out of Papworth Hospital next week. I am still on intravenous antibiotics but, hopefully, the infection is under control. I... Read more
Well, I am hoping to make it out of Papworth Hospital next week. I am still on intravenous antibiotics but, hopefully, the infection is under control. I have 14lbs of fluid to lose still and need to inflate my lungs fully. However, I can see me getting home now after 31/2 weeks. Time left to work on the walking before I leave. I'm trying not to be jealous of a strong looking guy who is striding around the ward, back of nightie flapping!!! I'll catch up next week
Marcus Krauss Way to stay strong, Margaret! My thoughts are with you
Rose Madura You'll catch up with him! Stay strong Margaret. Hang in there. Count every victory!
Two weeks today, I had my mitral valve replacement and tricuspid repair. It has been a story of complications from the beginning. Bleeding, breathing... Read more
Two weeks today, I had my mitral valve replacement and tricuspid repair. It has been a story of complications from the beginning. Bleeding, breathing problems, lung infection, massive fluid, it goes on. I am improving slowly but will have time yet at Papworth Hospital. I am finding walking hard because of breathing problems still. Today is fall asleep day! Hope to build up walking strength tomorrow. Thank you for all your support.
susan harris i am so sorry to hear that. but keep going! everyday! we’re rooting for you !
Margaret Fielden Thank you Susan. I am determined to do well in spite of the difficult start!
Still here at Papworth nearly two weeks on, they are saying another 2 weeks to deal with 22lbs of fluid. I need prayer to shift it and help me breathe. Thank ...Read more
Still here at Papworth nearly two weeks on, they are saying another 2 weeks to deal with 22lbs of fluid. I need prayer to shift it and help me breathe. Thank you
Susan Lynn Margaret - I'm so sorry to hear that you're retaining fluid. Some retention is normal. Hopefully, ... Read more
Susan Lynn Margaret - I'm so sorry to hear that you're retaining fluid. Some retention is normal. Hopefully, they'll be able to adjust your diuretic and your issue will be quickly resolved. I can't imagine that will take two weeks. Prayers to you. Stay strong and positive.
Margaret Fielden 0iI think the fluids plus other complications are keeping me here. Pleural effusions etc. First time... Read more
Margaret Fielden 0iI think the fluids plus other complications are keeping me here. Pleural effusions etc. First time to have been wrinklefree for years
Sue Lee Praying for you Margaret. What a tumultuous traumatic journey
Grace Mason Sending prayers to ease your pains and reduce your fluid retention, Margaret. 🙏🏼❤️🩹
Robert Miller I am sorry to hear that. I had cardioversion about half a year ago. It helped tremendously with me he ... Read more
Robert Miller I am sorry to hear that. I had cardioversion about half a year ago. It helped tremendously with me heart rate. However, I am still in pretty much constant AFib. Have to take medicine for it but it only helps a little. Did you have surgery before? If so, did the remove the heart's appendage? Are you on blood thinner? When you have AFib, blood clots are a major concerns and these two are important factors to avoid that.
Margaret Fielden Hi , I didn't have previous surgery. I was on blood thinners and will be sent home on them in another ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Hi , I didn't have previous surgery. I was on blood thinners and will be sent home on them in another ten days. It has been a marathon!
James Roberts Sorry to hear that Margaret. I've been following your progress as I could be back in Papworth soon. I ... Read more
James Roberts Sorry to hear that Margaret. I've been following your progress as I could be back in Papworth soon. I really hope things start getting better for you. I know from my surgery before that the first week is the hardest.
Rose Madura I'm sorry Margaret. Hang in there. Afib after heart surgery is fairly common. Hopefully it will reso ... Read more
Rose Madura I'm sorry Margaret. Hang in there. Afib after heart surgery is fairly common. Hopefully it will resolve soon. Are you on Amiodarone?
Margaret Fielden Still wired up until the new plan is made and yesterday's failed cardioversions. Back on oxygen too. ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Still wired up until the new plan is made and yesterday's failed cardioversions. Back on oxygen too. It's ten days after surgery so I was hoping the Afib might disappear naturally. amiodorone reduced my blood pressure too much in ITU. Who knows James, I may still be here when you come to Papworth!
Jill Porter I had Afib for about 5 weeks after MV repair. I was on several meds including Amiodorone and it went ... Read more
Jill Porter I had Afib for about 5 weeks after MV repair. I was on several meds including Amiodorone and it went back to normal after that time. It's very frustrating but follow their instructions and I'm sure it will settle eventually. What I heard it that the heart is very sensitive for a while after surgery and may take some time to settle down. I will be thinking of you.
Margaret Fielden Thank you all. The cardioversion caused low Sats so won't be repeated now. I have gained 22 lbs in fl ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Thank you all. The cardioversion caused low Sats so won't be repeated now. I have gained 22 lbs in fluid and Papworth are saying another couple of weeks in hospital to sort me out.
Well I am on the post surgery ward at last, after 7 days ITU,I am staying another 10 days at least I just heard they want to do a cardioversion tomorrow for ...Read more
Well I am on the post surgery ward at last, after 7 days ITU,I am staying another 10 days at least I just heard they want to do a cardioversion tomorrow for A Fib. I can't handle anything more. Please pray for me
Kimberly Eisenhut Margaret, You are in my prayers today and you will get through this! Please stay strong and keep us ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Margaret, You are in my prayers today and you will get through this! Please stay strong and keep us posted when you are able. They will fix you up and you will be on your way to a healthier heart. So much love, big hugs and strength sent
Susan Lynn Margaret - You've been through so much, the stress would take its toll on anyone. Try to take it o... Read more
Susan Lynn Margaret - You've been through so much, the stress would take its toll on anyone. Try to take it one day at a time. You're healing and getting better everyday - even on the days it doesn't feel like it. Find one thing to look forward to while you're recovering. Having a goal can be great inspiration on those days you need a little motivation. Remember, there's always someone here to cheer you up on those days when you're feeling down. Don't hesitate to reach out. Sending you a virtual hug!
Rose Madura Margaret, you have been through a lot. But you have made progress so count that as a victory. I had m ... Read more
Rose Madura Margaret, you have been through a lot. But you have made progress so count that as a victory. I had many complications after my surgery and there were days I felt like you are feeling now. Slowly but surely, I got better. You are at the right place and the doctors know what to do. I said a prayer for you before I posted this. God bless you. ❤️🩹🙏
Robert Miller I wish you all the best. I don't want to downplay this but cardioversion is a walk in the park compar ... Read more
Robert Miller I wish you all the best. I don't want to downplay this but cardioversion is a walk in the park compared to open heart surgery. From what I recall, they only infusion you have is for knocking you out. Heart monitor. Then they shock your heart. Then 20-30 minutes later you wake up. Good luck.
Pamela Gregory Margaret, you are in the right place so that they can monitor you and correct any problems. One day ... Read more
Pamela Gregory Margaret, you are in the right place so that they can monitor you and correct any problems. One day at a time, you can do this. Sending positive thoughts and prayers to you for things to improve quickly
I am on my sixth day in intensive care and being assessed for a pacemaker today. My blood pressure is too low. I had a huge bleeding surgery and deflated... Read more
I am on my sixth day in intensive care and being assessed for a pacemaker today. My blood pressure is too low. I had a huge bleeding surgery and deflated lungs with infection. Not what I hoped for!
Marie Myers I am so sorry you are having a rough time. Prayers for your full recovery!
Pamela Gregory So sorry for your struggles with surgery. Hang in there! They will figure this out. Also sending pra... Read more
Pamela Gregory So sorry for your struggles with surgery. Hang in there! They will figure this out. Also sending prayers for a full recovery
Rose Madura Unfortunately, recovery can sometimes be very difficult. Praying you turn the corner soon.
Deena Z Hi Margaret, that's a lot to wake up to and think about over six days, when you already are so exhaus ... Read more
Deena Z Hi Margaret, that's a lot to wake up to and think about over six days, when you already are so exhausted from the surgery. I feel for you. They will get the infection under control as well as improve your lung function, so try during the daily struggles to focus on that. Hope your family/friends are monitoring your care closely. Did they say why you were bleeding so much during surgery?
Anna Rakowicz Sometimes other medications you take can affect bleeding time, I’m sorry that you’re going throug ... Read more
Anna Rakowicz Sometimes other medications you take can affect bleeding time, I’m sorry that you’re going through these struggles. I had a friend who was in the ICU for 10 days, so hang in there, it will get better.
Kimberly Eisenhut Margaret, They will figure it all out and you will be on the road to recovery and feeling much bette... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Margaret, They will figure it all out and you will be on the road to recovery and feeling much better soon! Prayers, big hugs, and love sent to you Stay strong and take it a day, hour, minute at a time. Try listening to calming music, sounds and just get as much rest as you can. Keep us posted when you are able
Rita Savelis So sorry to hear that you are still in ICU, such a hard place to be. I was too exhausted to post from ... Read more
Rita Savelis So sorry to hear that you are still in ICU, such a hard place to be. I was too exhausted to post from ICU 9 years ago. Too exhausted, in too much discomfort. I also received an unexpected pacemaker, something I didn't even know was a possibility. I feel for you. My lungs reacted with multiple pleural effusions. It gets better, but there are some hard days to go through in recovery. Your body has been through a lot. Take care.
Trygve Harris Howdy Margaret. I'm sorry to hear you're having such a tough time. I just returned home from hospit... Read more
Trygve Harris Howdy Margaret. I'm sorry to hear you're having such a tough time. I just returned home from hospital and had 12 days in the ICU, with the BP and low heart rate the reason. I got a pacemaker and I love it. So many smaller symptoms I used to have were apparently related to this ridiculous heart rate of mine. I know ICU sucks and you might feel very depressed after surgery; I think that's normal, But you will be over the hump soon. They need time to figure it out.
Suzette Schear Hi Margaret, sorry you had tough time, send love, more prayers for recovery.
Ana Brusso Dear Margaret, as everyone here on this site I am feeling for you. I also spent five days in ICU with ... Read more
Ana Brusso Dear Margaret, as everyone here on this site I am feeling for you. I also spent five days in ICU with my second ohs because of a bubble in my lung. As my hvs godchild Deena say, they will heal your infection and improve your lungs function. Hang in there. We will be praying for your recovery and healing. God bless you
Susan Lynn Margaret - Please keep us posted on your progress. Hopefully, your issues will be resolved quickl... Read more
Susan Lynn Margaret - Please keep us posted on your progress. Hopefully, your issues will be resolved quickly and you'll be back on your recovery track. Complications do happen and you're in the right place to have them quickly addressed. Stay positive! Sending healing prayers!
Upcoming patient surgery -Mitral valve replacement and tricuspid repair tomorrow 29th October at 8.00am UK time. Don't know how it appears in a news box! I'm ...Read more
Upcoming patient surgery -Mitral valve replacement and tricuspid repair tomorrow 29th October at 8.00am UK time. Don't know how it appears in a news box! I'm settled on the ward and waiting to see my surgeon. I hope this will be life changing
Marie Myers Prayers for a smooth surgery and recovery! Hope you have a good night’ s sleep…😴
Debra Sciranka Sending my prayers for you. Where are you in the UK? I just had an aortic valve replacement and mitra ... Read more
Debra Sciranka Sending my prayers for you. Where are you in the UK? I just had an aortic valve replacement and mitral repair and it has made an unbelievable improvement in my breathing.
Rose Madura Best wishes Margaret. I think you only show up in the news box if you have uploaded a picture. Pleas ... Read more
Rose Madura Best wishes Margaret. I think you only show up in the news box if you have uploaded a picture. Please let us know how everything goes once you feel up to it. Godspeed.
Margaret Fielden Thank you all. I am in Papworth Hospital, Cambridge and have a lovely surgeon so I feel blessed and a ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Thank you all. I am in Papworth Hospital, Cambridge and have a lovely surgeon so I feel blessed and at peace. I go to theatre at 8.00am for 1 hrs preparation and then the surgery will be 5 hours. I'm praying for a new lease of life, so much still to do! So back to sleep until 5.00am..
My new surgery date post covid for mitral valve replacement and tricuspid repair is now 29th October 2024 at Papworth Hospital, Cambridge. I would very much ...Read more
My new surgery date post covid for mitral valve replacement and tricuspid repair is now 29th October 2024 at Papworth Hospital, Cambridge. I would very much value prayers for this. Thank you
Suzette Schear Glad you have a date after all the waiting. Sending you hugs, good wishes and lots of prayers.
Margaret Fielden Thank you, I'm nervous but relieved it's happening!
Robert Miller Is it going to be a replacement? Usually, they first try a repair. And if it's a replacement, is it g ... Read more
Robert Miller Is it going to be a replacement? Usually, they first try a repair. And if it's a replacement, is it going to be mechanical or tissue? Despite my background, I am not much of a believing person. But my thoughts are with you and I wish you all the best. Also make sure, you have everything prepared for the recovery (bed, recliner, pillows, etc).
Margaret Fielden Dear Robert, It is mitral replacement and tricuspid repair. The surgeon thinks there is too much dama ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Dear Robert, It is mitral replacement and tricuspid repair. The surgeon thinks there is too much damage for repair but will try if at all possible. It will be a tissue valve. I hope everything is ready for recovery, I keep thinking of something else I'll need! Thank you for your good wishes, much appreciated.
Margaret Fielden Thank you, John and to you, thinking of you on Monday. We are in recovery at the same time.
Robert Miller I hope things did go well today. All those pipes are annoying but in a few days they are all out. It' ... Read more
Robert Miller I hope things did go well today. All those pipes are annoying but in a few days they are all out. It's not easy but things just get better from here. Hang in there.
Well, a strange day. Last night I came down with covid, phoned the hospital this morning and my operation for tomorrow was cancelled. Spent this afternoon at ...Read more
Well, a strange day. Last night I came down with covid, phoned the hospital this morning and my operation for tomorrow was cancelled. Spent this afternoon at a local hospital having antivirals. It will be at least 7 weeks for the rescheduled operation as covid recovery affects outcome. So, devastated but relieved it isn't tomorrow. I need to process what has happened.
Kimberly Eisenhut I am so very sorry you are sick Margaret. Glad you are rescheduled and will be ready when it is time... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut I am so very sorry you are sick Margaret. Glad you are rescheduled and will be ready when it is time. Get well soon
Margaret Fielden Thank you, it was devastating but maybe more time to prepare myself will be good.
Rose Madura I'm sorry you had to postpone. And hope you recover quickly.
Anna Rakowicz So sorry to hear Margaret, I imagine the extra time adds a bit more stress. But this years strain do ... Read more
Anna Rakowicz So sorry to hear Margaret, I imagine the extra time adds a bit more stress. But this years strain doesn’t seem so bad. I just got over it, was sick for 2 days; I’ve had colds and flu last longer. Take care.
Yumiko Ishida So sorry it had to be postponed. But it sounds like you needed a little extra time to get mentally re ... Read more
Yumiko Ishida So sorry it had to be postponed. But it sounds like you needed a little extra time to get mentally ready for the operation?? At least this way you will have super immunity going into the surgery!
Margaret Fielden Thank you all. Today I am pleased to have more time before the surgery. I was so concerned with organ ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Thank you all. Today I am pleased to have more time before the surgery. I was so concerned with organising care afterwards and getting my home ready that I didn't focus on getting myself ready. The covid is not bad. It's a beautiful autumn day so I shall thank God for walking in my garden and maybe get out my paints. Life is good.
Kimberly Eisenhut Yes, Life is Good! Wonderful to see you in good spirits
Valerie Allen Prayers to you and your surgical team. It will be ok. 💕
Margaret Fielden Thank you so much. I keep playing the song 'it's gonna be OK' by Jenn Johnson. Doesn't help that my h ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Thank you so much. I keep playing the song 'it's gonna be OK' by Jenn Johnson. Doesn't help that my husband is ill and can't be with me .
Richard Munson Stick with “ heart and soul” by the cleftones and all will be well.
Brian Ruff Singing one up now. Remember that for medical professionals, this is routine - even if it isn't to us ... Read more
Brian Ruff Singing one up now. Remember that for medical professionals, this is routine - even if it isn't to us.
Deena Z You got it, Margaret . Remember the odds are so very, very in your favor for a totally successful ou... Read more
Deena Z You got it, Margaret . Remember the odds are so very, very in your favor for a totally successful outcome.
Margaret Fielden The back brace has gone. Now the mitral valve that caused the fall and three broken vertebrae goes on ... Read more
Margaret Fielden The back brace has gone. Now the mitral valve that caused the fall and three broken vertebrae goes on Saturday morning. It has to get better!
My pre-op at Papworth Hospital went well. Super efficient and terrifying. The staff have great faith in my surgeon, Ravi Joseph De Silva, a top surgeon here ...Read more
My pre-op at Papworth Hospital went well. Super efficient and terrifying. The staff have great faith in my surgeon, Ravi Joseph De Silva, a top surgeon here in the UK and a lovely man. I can't believe this is happening, I'm in complete denial. I know God has a plan and I have to trust but, wow, this is hard. It is good to know so many of you have already faced this.
Kimberly Eisenhut Margaret, You will be in my prayers and I know you will do great! We are all right here beside you an... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Margaret, You will be in my prayers and I know you will do great! We are all right here beside you and chearing you on. Please keep us posted with updates when you can, and know you are thought of with much love and good wishes
Margaret Fielden Thank you so much Kimberly, I really appreciate your message
I saw an NHS cardiologist for the first time on September 10th. He said I should have had surgery within 4 to 8 weeks of my hospitalisation in April. He was ...Read more
I saw an NHS cardiologist for the first time on September 10th. He said I should have had surgery within 4 to 8 weeks of my hospitalisation in April. He was planning to refer me for surgery in November, but concerned investigations into my severe osteoporosis may delay things. I was very churned up knowing how the badly the NHS had let me down, lost results, cancelled appointments etc. However, I couldn't face waiting any longer for NHS surgery, so I chose to continue with my planned private surgery on October 5th. My surgeon is one of the UK's finest and the heart hospital, Papworth, is rated outstanding. I am OK with my decision.
Rose Madura Margaret, I'm glad you feel confident with your decision. It's too bad NHS has let you down. God ble ... Read more
Rose Madura Margaret, I'm glad you feel confident with your decision. It's too bad NHS has let you down. God bless you on your journey.
Margaret Fielden Thank you Rose, I trust my surgeon and believe he is part of God's plan for me. I'm sure I will feel ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Thank you Rose, I trust my surgeon and believe he is part of God's plan for me. I'm sure I will feel anxious but I will be asking for God's peace to get through.
Iona Macintosh ❤️ good luck 🙏 I was very lucky with NHS I had my replacement mechanical aorta valve in the ... Read more
Iona Macintosh ❤️ good luck 🙏 I was very lucky with NHS I had my replacement mechanical aorta valve in the Golden Jubilee Hospital outside Glasgow! The whole team were absolutely amazing! My 1 year anniversary is on Saturday 21st September 2024.. I’m so blessed ❤️
Margaret Fielden That is good news Iona, so glad it worked out well for you. Let's face it I'm getting the NHS team bu ... Read more
Margaret Fielden That is good news Iona, so glad it worked out well for you. Let's face it I'm getting the NHS team but paying for it! Happy anniversary!
I'm concerned because my daughter, who is kindly driving me the long journey to Cambridge for my open heart surgery on October 5th, told me today that my 15 ...Read more
I'm concerned because my daughter, who is kindly driving me the long journey to Cambridge for my open heart surgery on October 5th, told me today that my 15 year old granddaughter is staying down with her during my surgery. I don't want my lovely granddaughter traumatised by seeing me with tubes and wires. I have said that, whilst I'm in ICU, I won't be very aware of visitors but I am worried about my granddaughter seeing me like that.
Suzette Schear My sister who is a nurse didn’t want to see me right after surgery. There should be a waiting room ... Read more
Suzette Schear My sister who is a nurse didn’t want to see me right after surgery. There should be a waiting room that she can stay in. I was told to tell everyone not to visit right after surgery so I saw my sister and boyfriend the very next day recovering in icu. Besides being so drugged I wouldn’t realize they were there. They remove the gloves on your hands and some tubing the next day after surgery in icu was not as alarming.
Richard Munson You know your granddaughter better than anyone of course but 15 is not that super young in todays wor ... Read more
Richard Munson You know your granddaughter better than anyone of course but 15 is not that super young in todays world. If she was 5 or 10 even i personally would worry but not 15, but like i said, you are the best judge of that. In a way, i was lucky during covid. No visitors period. I have 2 grand kids 15 and i think they could handle it. I might want to follow up with another visit soon after once the brunt of the tubes are out. Maybe even show them some pictures of a person right after surgery to be not shocked.
Marie Myers It may spur her into the medical fields!
Thomas Brusstar I did not want my son, who was 13 at the time, to see me in the ICU. So I told my wife to wait for t ... Read more
Thomas Brusstar I did not want my son, who was 13 at the time, to see me in the ICU. So I told my wife to wait for the next day when I was in a regular room. He came at dinner time and helped me eat my dessert. I put a show we knew on the TV, just to make it more comfortable. Just be honest with your daughter and say you don't want your granddaughter seeing you until you're awake in the regular room the next day.
Robert Miller My wife saw me intubated and one nurse supposedly yelled at the other one that my wife should not see ... Read more
Robert Miller My wife saw me intubated and one nurse supposedly yelled at the other one that my wife should not see me in this state. Anyways, I think it mostly depends on the character of your granddaughter. In most cases, I think it is perfectly fine that your granddaughter sees you with all the tubes and wires. Our son was just a couple years older than your granddaughter and he was perfectly fine seeing me right out the OR. That's life. Discuss things with them. Tell them it's annoying but doesn't hurt (hopefully). Hopefully they will never have to go through surgery but if they do, this will help them. And maybe they get some appreciation of what medicine can do and get inspired by it.
Margaret Fielden Thank you all for your help. Funnily enough my grandson, her brother, is studying medicine at Cambrid ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Thank you all for your help. Funnily enough my grandson, her brother, is studying medicine at Cambridge. He will be more used to the tubes etc. I will talk with my granddaughter and see how she feels about her capable Grandma being seen when not at her best! Next day I'm more likely to know she's there, by the sounds of your experiences, which may be better for us both.
Rita Savelis This is probably your granddaughter's decision to make. If she doesn't want to go into ICU, there are ... Read more
Rita Savelis This is probably your granddaughter's decision to make. If she doesn't want to go into ICU, there are waiting rooms. Everyone has a different capacity of looking at things. At the same time I was so out of it in ICU that I didn't really feel like seeing anyone at all. Way too exhausted. Those who visit often need to see you more than you need to see them...
Margaret Fielden I agree Rita that in ICU I'm not likely to want visitors and that they may need to check I'm still he ... Read more
Margaret Fielden I agree Rita that in ICU I'm not likely to want visitors and that they may need to check I'm still here for their peace of mind. Jim Davis says, in his Utube series about Open Heart Surgery, that in ICU you don't want to be trying to give care to your family at that time, just to heal. I will talk to my family about what we can all handle.
Susan Lynn I requested that my husband and sister not see me while intubated. There are a lot of machines and ... Read more
Susan Lynn I requested that my husband and sister not see me while intubated. There are a lot of machines and tubes, but most are removed in a day or two. I worried about unnecessarily traumatizing my family, too. Make the decision that's right for you.
Margaret Fielden Thank you Susan, My husband knows the score and is planning just to check I'm still here and leave me ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Thank you Susan, My husband knows the score and is planning just to check I'm still here and leave me to the professional care. In the next day or so afterwards I hope I will be pleased to see them all for a short visit! Normally, I work too hard to please everyone, my problem but hard to change.
Rose Madura Everyone is different Margaret. If you don't want your granddaughter to see you like that, that's you ... Read more
Rose Madura Everyone is different Margaret. If you don't want your granddaughter to see you like that, that's your call in my opinion. You are the patient.
BRENDA JUNIEL my 15 yr old twin girls seen me after surgery with my husband there dad. My husband told me they took ... Read more
BRENDA JUNIEL my 15 yr old twin girls seen me after surgery with my husband there dad. My husband told me they took it really hard emotional and when came home we talked about everything and with prayer they are understanding the process of my recovery. Prayer and communication helped our family. They were by my side and at each visit to visit my cardiac surgeon.
Maggie Ma My husband took a couple of photos for me at ICU just post surgery. I didn’t look at it myself unti ... Read more
Maggie Ma My husband took a couple of photos for me at ICU just post surgery. I didn’t look at it myself until three months post surgery 😅 ( don’t want to impact myself emotionally during my recovery)
Chris Hall My wife wanted no one to be with her either time. Since my surgery this time was done over 2 days she ... Read more
Chris Hall My wife wanted no one to be with her either time. Since my surgery this time was done over 2 days she got to see me all hooked up. She said it was crazy.
I was diagnosed with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction over 2 1/2 years ago. Severe mitral valve disease 3 months ago. My mitral valve replacement ...Read more
I was diagnosed with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction over 2 1/2 years ago. Severe mitral valve disease 3 months ago. My mitral valve replacement and tricuspid repair is on October 5th. I am so scared that I'm not physically strong enough for this operation. I have severe osteoporosis, six fractures this year, two ribs and three spinal vertebrae and a foot. I have no thyroid gland plus other health issues. However, I look younger than my years and I can still talk! I think my lovely surgeon has the impression that I'm fitter than I am in reality. I can't be the only person who has had these fears, I'm sure. I know some of your valve stories are very hard. I am trying to build up pre-op strength but life keeps getting in the way..
Suzette Schear So sorry Margaret. It’s sometimes hard to see objectively as your surgeon does. Especially when ... Read more
Suzette Schear So sorry Margaret. It’s sometimes hard to see objectively as your surgeon does. Especially when you don’t feel great and have been told and feel aware of all the things they tell you are wrong. Hopefully you trust your surgeon , there are times where they won’t do surgery. It’s fearful but for me I just believe in God and trust in the process.
Robert Miller I am not familiar with such a situation but if the surgeon thinks the surgery doesn't bring more bene ... Read more
Robert Miller I am not familiar with such a situation but if the surgeon thinks the surgery doesn't bring more benefits than not doing the surgery, he most likely wouldn't do it. Considering your significant osteoporosis, have you discussed 1) minimal invasive surgery where they don't cut the bone and/or 2) using a metal plate to afix the rib bones? I have no idea if those are options for you but maybe it's something to discuss.
Yumiko Ishida You can do it, Margaret! My mother had severe osteoporosis when her valve was replaced in her late 70 ... Read more
Yumiko Ishida You can do it, Margaret! My mother had severe osteoporosis when her valve was replaced in her late 70s. Her heart is doing great and her bones are fine 10+ years later. My osteoporosis is mild but I have joint issues, so I got physical therapy before my valve replacement and as soon as I was cleared to resume it post surgery. I think it’s called physiotherapy in the UK? Cardiologists and heart surgeons are clueless about anything that does not directly involve the heart, at least mine were, so I went directly to the physical therapist. You may need a referral from your primary care physician. I, too, look younger than my age and my surgeon thought I won’t need cardiac rehab, but I knew I could benefit from it, so I asked my cardiologist to prescribe it. Because of the miscellaneous joint issues (foot, lower back, shoulder), my cadio is limited, so my recovery has been slow, but it is improving!
Margaret Fielden Thank you, I am trying to trust my surgeon and I do trust God whatever the outcome. I am not a candid ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Thank you, I am trying to trust my surgeon and I do trust God whatever the outcome. I am not a candidate for minimally invasive sadly because the valve is too damaged. I did ask for that! I have a nurse appointment next Monday so I sent ahead some questions I have about options for closing the sternum with severe osteoporosis. I believe there are options used when the bone doesn't have good density. I saw the fixed plate on this site so maybe that is an option. Spinal surgery wasn't possible in February when I lost conciousness through lack of oxygen and fractured two spinal vertebrae. At present a broken rib, where my bra dug, in makes me concerned that spreading the ribs will have unwanted consequences!
Yumiko Ishida I was told the minimally invasive approach is higher risk, especially for those of us with weaker bon ... Read more
Yumiko Ishida I was told the minimally invasive approach is higher risk, especially for those of us with weaker bones. To access your heart the surgeon needs to pry your ribs apart, so you may end up with unintended broken ribs. In the traditional method, the cut in the sternum is intentional and controlled.
Margaret Fielden Good to hear about the physical therapy Yumiko. I am seeing my primary care doctor today to arrange t ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Good to hear about the physical therapy Yumiko. I am seeing my primary care doctor today to arrange this. My spinal surgeon last week wanted to know why I hadn't had any physiotherapy following the spinal fractures, so hopefully this will start before the operation on October 5th! I had cardiac rehabilitation for my heart failure and loved it so I will ask to do it again. Like you I had limitations, but the benefits were so good. Slow but sure. It is very encouraging to hear that your Mother had valve surgery at my age with severe osteoporosis and is doing well so many years later. That is such good news.Thank you
Richard Munson All this talk about rib prying vs. sternum sawing and wanted to put in a good word about minimally in ... Read more
Richard Munson All this talk about rib prying vs. sternum sawing and wanted to put in a good word about minimally invasive. I had it and happy i did. Not sure if they pried my ribs apart but i did see a tire jack in the operating room. I figured my surgeon had a flat.
Does the insomnia improve after valve surgery? It's been really bad this year after the valve disease became severe. 3.25 am in the UK, night after night
Marie Myers It took me almost a year go get back to sleeping better. I think for me, part of the problem is just ... Read more
Marie Myers It took me almost a year go get back to sleeping better. I think for me, part of the problem is just getting older. The other part is life’s problems have a way of getting more complicated. All that has a negative effect on sleep, for sure…
Rita Savelis Insomnia comes and goes. And can get worse with age. Worrying about yr heart before surgery can certa ... Read more
Rita Savelis Insomnia comes and goes. And can get worse with age. Worrying about yr heart before surgery can certainly cause insomnia. And then, unfortunately, it can be hard to sleep for 6 weeks or so after surgery. But eventually things tend to get better. Sleep meds can help, used occasionally, because your body needs sleep. I feel for you. It's awful to lie awake in the middle of the night.
Margaret Fielden Well, I have the age issue! My general doctor prescribed sleeping tablets, but five nights a week to ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Well, I have the age issue! My general doctor prescribed sleeping tablets, but five nights a week to avoid habituation. I do sleep better with them but the worries can break through the sleep aid. I want the surgery over so that worry is out of the way. Thank you
Suzette Schear Sleeping was hard for me . My had an air conditioning that was background noise and breathing was ha ... Read more
Suzette Schear Sleeping was hard for me . My had an air conditioning that was background noise and breathing was hard for me so when I went to sleep I propped myself up. It helped me. I also listened to meditation sleeping stories on you tube . Or just sleep meditation . I would also read to keep my brain occupied before going to sleep
Margaret Fielden I like the noise of air conditioning too, I suppose it's white noise. I've tried having music playing ... Read more
Margaret Fielden I like the noise of air conditioning too, I suppose it's white noise. I've tried having music playing. Distraction certainly helps
Hi, I have found your responses so helpful thank you. I am hoping to get an idea of how much care help is needed on leaving hospital to go home. I know everyone ...Read more
Hi, I have found your responses so helpful thank you. I am hoping to get an idea of how much care help is needed on leaving hospital to go home. I know everyone is different. I am pretty 'mature' and I'm hoping this won't make recovery slow.
Marie Myers I was happy that my husband was there with me for the first 2 weeks. Lots of little things, like taki ... Read more
Marie Myers I was happy that my husband was there with me for the first 2 weeks. Lots of little things, like taking care of meals ( takeout), driving me to appointments, reaching for things that I couldn’t reach for, and of course companionship. There is also the no lifting more than 10 pounds. I was emotionally all over the place, so it was good having someone there. You could go to a rehab facility if you cannot find someone. Personally, I would hire an aide before going to a rehab, but that is me…
Suzette Schear I agree with Marie said. I stayed at my boyfriends house for approximately 51 days. I could have lef ... Read more
Suzette Schear I agree with Marie said. I stayed at my boyfriends house for approximately 51 days. I could have left sooner but chose not to . The biggest thing was not being able to drive and sitting in the recliner a lot. When you leave the hospital makes sure you’re steady before releasing you. I was able to do things but was more aware of my movement and did things slower. That was my experience. Every journey is different.
Rose Madura I think you should get someone to stay with you for at least two weeks.
Maggie Ma My husband is busy always at work. But he stayed in hospital with me first 5 days post surgery and fi ... Read more
Maggie Ma My husband is busy always at work. But he stayed in hospital with me first 5 days post surgery and first week at home with me. I would say two weeks at least as well. First week at home you won’t be able to take care of yourself independently. It’s also helpful mentally
Robert Miller I assume with "mature" you mean age. Being older makes recovery a bit harder. But my surgeon told me ... Read more
Robert Miller I assume with "mature" you mean age. Being older makes recovery a bit harder. But my surgeon told me that most people get this surgery in their 70s. I know there are many that get it in their 20s, 40s, 50s, etc. But he said people in their 70s still recover well. It's more about the general health condition. In any case, no matter your age or condition, you want to be prepared for the recovery. Check out the learning center. https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/learning-center.php
Get important facts about heart valve disease, symptoms, risks and treatment.
Margaret Fielden Thank you all. I'm thinking of getting someone to help for two weeks and perhaps help with cleaning a ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Thank you all. I'm thinking of getting someone to help for two weeks and perhaps help with cleaning after that. I'm being a scaredy cat! I am 77 with heart failure and health issues picked up over the years so I don't feel fighting fit going into surgery. However, I will do my best to follow guidelines. The sugery may be frightened forward which gives me less time to worry!
Suzette Schear Glad you’re getting help you shouldn’t go through this alone- see if insurance covers care. You ... Read more
Suzette Schear Glad you’re getting help you shouldn’t go through this alone- see if insurance covers care. You have a safety net with this group, you’re not alone in your thoughts or fears. We are all on this website for the same reason .
Margaret Fielden Surgery brought forward not frightened forward, although maybe that is correct!
Margaret Fielden Thank you Suzette. I don't have insurance sadly so the savings for a rainy day are coming out!
Suzette Schear There are places that deliver in home meals for free. Maybe the hospital can put you in touch with p ... Read more
Suzette Schear There are places that deliver in home meals for free. Maybe the hospital can put you in touch with patient advocate services for you. There is only one of you and you are special, pulling out savings stinks but the rainy day has come. Churches and hospitals can sometimes help keep in touch
Rose Madura Margaret, doesn't the UK have government health care?
Margaret Fielden We have the National Health Service. I haven't seen a cardiologist on the NHS after being diagnosed w ... Read more
Margaret Fielden We have the National Health Service. I haven't seen a cardiologist on the NHS after being diagnosed with heart failure 2 1/2years ago in Greece, still waiting. My op is private and taking all my savings. If I wait for the NHS it could be too long!! I have found a good Carers service so I will book one week with extended care possible. It is the rainy day fund!
Robert Miller May I ask how much this is projected to cost? You don't have to answer at all. I am just curious what ... Read more
Robert Miller May I ask how much this is projected to cost? You don't have to answer at all. I am just curious what something like that costs in the UK.
Margaret Fielden Hi Robert, Because I have surgery on two valves now it is likely yo be around £35,000. A lot of mon ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Hi Robert, Because I have surgery on two valves now it is likely yo be around £35,000. A lot of money!
I will have open heart mitral valve replacement and tricuspid repair on October 5th, I am scared, get angry easily and can't sleep. I'm don't suppose that is ...Read more
I will have open heart mitral valve replacement and tricuspid repair on October 5th, I am scared, get angry easily and can't sleep. I'm don't suppose that is abnormal. I need encouragement from those who have come through this
Rose Madura Hi Margaret, welcome to the site. It's normal to be scared. I wonder if your anger is due to lack of ... Read more
Rose Madura Hi Margaret, welcome to the site. It's normal to be scared. I wonder if your anger is due to lack of sleep. It's a possibility. I'd reach out to your doctor to see if he/she can prescribe something to help you sleep. Also, think positively. People go through these surgeries with success every day. It's no fun but definitely doable. Godspeed.
Anna Rakowicz Welcome Margaret, you are not alone in how you’re feeling. I think it’s normal to feel a little s ... Read more
Anna Rakowicz Welcome Margaret, you are not alone in how you’re feeling. I think it’s normal to feel a little shell shocked, as this is a major surgery. I take a little anti-anxiety medication when it becomes overwhelming. But at least you have a date and can now look forward to getting on the other side of this, and you will!! ❤️
Margaret Fielden Thank you Rosa and Anna, I have been thinking of asking for some medication. Sleep is a problem and I ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Thank you Rosa and Anna, I have been thinking of asking for some medication. Sleep is a problem and I am pretty anxious a lot of the time. The need for valve surgery did come as a shock. I need to feel more confident that I can get through the surgery and recovery. As you say these operations take place every day. Thank you again.
Yumiko Ishida Hi, Margaret! Once I had a surgery date, I tried to focus on doing what I can in preparation of the r ... Read more
Yumiko Ishida Hi, Margaret! Once I had a surgery date, I tried to focus on doing what I can in preparation of the recovery period. It could be overwhelming, but it kept my mind occupied.
Are you getting physical therapy for your spinal injuries? If not, get some, and with the help of your physical therapist come up with an exercise you can do post valve surgery. Most people on this site just walk, but that’s not practical for some of us.
If you want to try anti anxiety meds, I would talk to your neurologist first. I have low blood pressure and a history of stroke, so I don’t do well with drugs that act on the nervous system. Deep breathing is a necessity post surgery, but it’s helpful pre surgery, too.
Robert Miller It's difficult news when you are being told you need open heart surgery. To put the bad news first, a ... Read more
Robert Miller It's difficult news when you are being told you need open heart surgery. To put the bad news first, all the wires and tubes after the surgery are a hassle and a complete recovery will take you at least a few months. But look at the bright side. This is a rather common surgery. When you go into surgery, you are surrounded by trained hospital staff. During surgery, there will be two surgeons and several assistance. After surgery, you will have a heart monitor and in the unlikely case something happens, nurses and doctors can react on VERY short notice. Frankly, I never felt more safe than after my 2 open heart surgeries. And you add MANY more years to your life with this surgery. Except for the few months after surgery, it's all for the better.
Rita Savelis I had my aortic and mitral valves replaced with mechanical valves and my tricuspid repaired in 2015. ... Read more
Rita Savelis I had my aortic and mitral valves replaced with mechanical valves and my tricuspid repaired in 2015. Recovery was long and I was exhausted for a long time. Each person's experience is singular and different. Anger is normal and wondering why did your body let you down? Fear is normal - who knows what your recovery will be like? Sleep issues are rampant in the general population, let alone someone who has a big worry. Everything you are experiencing is so normal. It's hard. Pre-surgery is hard, post-surgery is hard. And then you get through it. One day at a time. And your experience is unique to you, so noone else's will match yours. You are stronger than you think. Breathe. Talking to a therapist can help. Sleep meds can help. Being vocal and honest, as you are being here, can be helpful. Keep sharing.
Pamela Gregory I agree with everything everyone has said as a response. Waiting for surgery almost sent me over the... Read more
Pamela Gregory I agree with everything everyone has said as a response. Waiting for surgery almost sent me over the edge! Recovery is no walk in the park but my mind was going to horrible places and honestly it was no where near as bad as I thought it would be. You can do this
Susan Lynn Welcome, Margaret. All of your symptoms are easily explained. You're going through the most diff... Read more
Susan Lynn Welcome, Margaret. All of your symptoms are easily explained. You're going through the most difficult part of heart surgery right now - waiting. You'll go through a range of emotions between now and game day! They're totally normal! By the time your surgery rolls around, you'll be ready to put it behind you. You can ask your surgeon to move up your date if there's an open spot. Everything in this process is completely doable - don't over think it. All you need to do is show up - your surgeon and team will take care of everything else! You can do this!
Sue Maize You’ve come to the right place Margaret, lots of encouragement in this community and A LOT of share ... Read more
Sue Maize You’ve come to the right place Margaret, lots of encouragement in this community and A LOT of shared experience. 😊💕I’ve never experienced anything quite like the gamut of emotions I had in the months leading up to my surgery, especially a few days before. I was tired, lethargic, but also sleep deprived often, went through some stretches of depression, lots of anxiety, especially in the beginning when i was just trying to take it all in. But then I also had moments when I felt truly at peace and grateful that I was going to be much better on the other side of surgery—it’s truly incredible what these surgeons can do! This group has been an absolute God-send. Ask anything. ❤️🩹🙏🏻
Chris Hall We've all felt that way. This site is the place to be with lots of folks who have been through or goi ... Read more
Chris Hall We've all felt that way. This site is the place to be with lots of folks who have been through or going through what you're going through. I'm having my second surgery Tues and after going through it once my anxiety level is low. You'll do great! See you in recovery
Grace Mason Welcome Margaret. You are not alone in your feelings. I asked for help, from my regular GP, to dea ... Read more
Grace Mason Welcome Margaret. You are not alone in your feelings. I asked for help, from my regular GP, to deal with my anxiety and sleeplessness before surgery. The anxiety before surgery can be difficult, for sure.
BRENDA JUNIEL Welcome Margaret yes very normal and on the day of surgery I had faith in God and was happily ready t ... Read more
BRENDA JUNIEL Welcome Margaret yes very normal and on the day of surgery I had faith in God and was happily ready to get my sugery after 2 cancelatios. I am 7 weeks postop OHS and went back to work this week! Praying for you and it's okay to be emotionally scared!! You got this!
Maggie Ma Margaret, I was scared as well at beginning. With my experience of OHS, I found OHS wasn’t as bad a ... Read more
Maggie Ma Margaret, I was scared as well at beginning. With my experience of OHS, I found OHS wasn’t as bad as what I thought at all. Now I’m 2.5 months post surgery. I’m stronger and better than before. Not only my life becomes normal again, I can also do daily workout with even higher intensity vs pre-surgery now. There are so many successful stories in this community. There is still quite some time to your surgery day, focus on getting yourself prepared for that day -routine exercise to get your body prepared for a quick recovery
Margaret Fielden Thank you all so much for your encouragement and help. I do appreciate your answers. Hearing your exp ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Thank you all so much for your encouragement and help. I do appreciate your answers. Hearing your experiences is so important. Goodness, you can feel so alone facing such major surgery. For some of you more than once, you are very courageous. I will try to get my act together and eat well and exercise as best I can with my spinal injury. It has to be better to go into surgery in as good condition as possible. God bless you all
One complication is post surgical atrial fibrillation which has been resistant to digoxin over the last six weeks. However last week I was diagnosed with wet macular degeneration in both eyes and will continue Anti Vegf injections four weekly in both eyes. It seems a coincidence that I start digoxin six weeks ago and after a few weeks get bleeds behind both eyes. Has anybody on here a similar story with digoxin?