It's been too long since I posted anything....but still I am so grateful for this means of communication that has been here for us....
I just had my one year ...Read more
It's been too long since I posted anything....but still I am so grateful for this means of communication that has been here for us....
I just had my one year post-op visit on Monday, October 22. Unfortunately, my surgeon could not be there at the last minute and I was so disappointed that I couldn't see him to let him know how much I appreciate what he did for me. The PA was very thorough and we had a chance to talk about all the issues that I had dealt with over the last few months. The pain in my left side has pretty much gone away - sometimes stress will set it off - and I feel it for a day or two - so I told my husband no more stress. It's hard because of all the leftover bills from what the insurance didn't pay and the hospital left overs from my husband's hospitalization and near death in April from a burst appendix we have had to put our house up for sale. We have had no bites and we live in a very desirable neighborhood in a beautiful home. Our fleece we sent to God was if it was His will that we move that it goes quickly but now that the house has been up for sale for two months with no real interest we wonder if God will work out all the details of our financial situation and maybe we could stay....it's not likely going to be the best thing - my husband thinks that I wouldn't be able to afford the house expenses if he dies first - it would be hard so I have had to go along with his decision for the best future for us. How can your life have no stress? Impossible!!!! But in HIS strength we find our strength....I just want to let people know that sometimes we have to do things that hurt but we have to work it out ourselves. Sometimes a doctor can fix us and sometimes God has to do it for us. I just want to encourage others to hang in there - life goes on, problems go on, but we have a chance to live a full and wonderful life because our hearts are working again the way they need to.
The good news is that Dr. Kern doesn't need to see me for 2 years!!!! That's how well I'm doing. I recently lost 30 pounds and feel great other than a torn meniscus in my left knee - it hurts so bad - but I'm getting along with it until our financial situation works out better. Thanks to all who have encouraged me throughout this last year. I hope that I can be an encouragement to others as you have been to me.
God bless.
LINDA ROBERTS Thanks for updating us on your present situation. It is almost impossible to get rid of stress in li ... Read more
LINDA ROBERTS Thanks for updating us on your present situation. It is almost impossible to get rid of stress in life but it seems like you have adopted a good attitude by putting your financial problems in God's hands. Hope you will find a buyer soon for your home so that will be one less thing to worry about. That is great you lost 30lbs. and feel great. Sorry about your meniscus-hoping it will heal on its own with time.
Nancy James Thanks Linda - for your kind words. We decided to take the house off the market - the market is terr ... Read more
Nancy James Thanks Linda - for your kind words. We decided to take the house off the market - the market is terrible right now so we have re-mortgaged the house for now and will see how things go in the next year or two. God always provides the answers when we don't have them!!!!
I finished with my cardiac rehab last week. I had 36 visits and I want to encourage anyone who has heart surgery to make sure you do the whole amount of visits ...Read more
I finished with my cardiac rehab last week. I had 36 visits and I want to encourage anyone who has heart surgery to make sure you do the whole amount of visits for rehab. The nurses were wonderful where I went - Stroobants in Lynchburg, VA and I actually started looking forward to going 3 times a week - at first it was hard and then I started feeling better - I am now going to a local gym and working out - doing pretty much the same routine I was doing at the rehab center. The personal trainer that I talked to told me to do what was working and that after I felt even stronger and wanted different results he would help to adjust my routine. Don't not take advantage of the rehab - it is in your best interest and health. I'm also adding some stretch classes that are provided for seniors at the fitness center that I'm going to - YEAH for Humana and their Silver Sneakers program - my fitness center (Lifetime Fitness) is FREE! What a blessing!! Thanks Humana!! And I really want to express my appreciation for the rehab center I went to for their care, and their compassion to me and to the other patients who I worked out with for several months.
At 6 weeks I still had pain issues, but people here and on the Cardio Files were so helpful with advice and caring that I got over the hump - probably one of ...Read more
At 6 weeks I still had pain issues, but people here and on the Cardio Files were so helpful with advice and caring that I got over the hump - probably one of the biggest in my life - and I got through it emotionally and physically...the last week and a half have been so much better. I have had more stamina and energy - and when I feel I need it I just have learned to sit or sleep and then I'm fine again. So thankful for my surgeon, Dr. John Kern, UVA hospital, my family most of all for their support and love, my daughter Chris for spending 3 solid weeks with me in the hospital one week and two weeks afterward - making my meals, cleaning my house, making sure I took my meds, keeping track of every thing I ate and all my medications - making phone calls - and grocery shopping and everything else that she could do to make me comfortable.
We never expect to have to go through heart surgery - it was a complete shock - once I had the surgery I thought - what have I done - and now I know why I did it....my prayer is that I will have many more years with my family and recently we found out that our second great grandchild (a little girl) will be born in February - I could not be more thankful than I am right now.
Also thank you Adam for your book and this website - for the friends I have made and for the support that other members have given to me. Thanks all! God bless.
Wanda Mroz Glad to hear you are finally on the other side of the jump! 💞
Leslie Bakos Keep us posted about the pain issues...I hope you solve that problem....
Marie Myers Great post! Glad you are doing well...
Jennifer McInerney Great to hear that you are well on your way to a full recovery. Congratulations on the new great gran ... Read more
Jennifer McInerney Great to hear that you are well on your way to a full recovery. Congratulations on the new great grandchild as well. That puts everything in perspective.
So great to hear about your leap forward on the recovery path Nancy. We have so much to be thankful f ... Read more
So great to hear about your leap forward on the recovery path Nancy. We have so much to be thankful for.
Rose Madura I too am glad you are doing much better. It is a journey but now you are recovering and you'll be ab ... Read more
Rose Madura I too am glad you are doing much better. It is a journey but now you are recovering and you'll be able to advise someone else. Best wishes. Keep us posted.
Gerald Poulton You have had a rough road to recovery and I am so happy to hear that you are now doing so much better ... Read more
Gerald Poulton You have had a rough road to recovery and I am so happy to hear that you are now doing so much better. Yes it does make us realize how precious our life is and how precious those special people in our lives are to us.
Bonnie Stone-Hope One step at a time.
You are doing well!
Thinking of you, congratulations on your new baby in your ... Read more
Bonnie Stone-Hope One step at a time.
You are doing well!
Thinking of you, congratulations on your new baby in your family.
Nancy James Thanks to everyone who posted....at 9 weeks I'm doing a lot better. Cardiac rehab has been good for ... Read more
Nancy James Thanks to everyone who posted....at 9 weeks I'm doing a lot better. Cardiac rehab has been good for me - I'm encouraged and really looking forward to spending Christmas with all my family 4 daughter and their families so there will be 23 of us together on Christmas Eve and Christmas day.
Thanks to all of you who posted some advice about my pain problem. Today has been so bad. I left a message for a nurse to call me - no call. It's so discouraging ...Read more
Thanks to all of you who posted some advice about my pain problem. Today has been so bad. I left a message for a nurse to call me - no call. It's so discouraging when you need to ask them something, but they don't take the time to call you back. This is not like having a cold or the flu. I am so uncomfortable all the time - it's constant anymore. Tonight I had to plug in a lamp and picked the cord off the floor and that was painful, but when I inserted the plug into the wall plug I nearly screamed it was so painful. This does not seem normal to me. I am having pain through the chest but what is really worse is the pain and burning sensation from my shoulders all the way to my elbow joint. Driving is difficult - if I have to turn the wheel sharply I'm in agony...I haven't hardly gone anywhere because of that - just to a local store I'm scared if I get into a close situation with another car. My judgment is actually off even pulling into my garage.
At this point since I have already talked to my surgeon and my cardiologist about the pain I don't know where to turn. The ER was no help either....the thought of this taking another few months to heal without any medication is getting me very depressed. I don't know who or where to turn. Can anyone give me any advice other than it will get better, please??
Thanks.
Nancy
Nancy, my friend sees a pain management doctor for severe neck and back problems. Maybe you could ch ... Read more
Nancy, my friend sees a pain management doctor for severe neck and back problems. Maybe you could check and see If there are any such doctors in your area. Feel better soon.
Hi Nancy, it sounds like your pain is worsening. Do you think it could be a pinched nerve pain? You m ... Read more
Hi Nancy, it sounds like your pain is worsening. Do you think it could be a pinched nerve pain? You mentioned "burning pain" and a sudden intense pain when you bent over to plug in lamp. Would you be able to see a good physiotherapist for an examination and explanation?
(I've had chronic pain for 28 years as the result of a serious car accident and have been through the long list of diagnosis and treatment. And nerve pain has been the most frustrating of the various types of pain that I have experienced. I have found over the years, that stress and other concurrent illnesses made the pain worse. I use my heat/ice regime and sometimes I have to take strong meds or muscle relaxants. I find it fascinating that with my OHS and pacemaker insertion, extra strength Tylenol was all that I've need! I was expecting much worse pain. However, the pain that has been bothering me since surgery is between my shoulder blades and many mornings, it will wake me up very early and is so severe, I have to get out of bed and walk around, lean up against the door frame to do a "acupressure" of the tight spinal muscles!)
Our bodies are extremely complex and most doctors really don't understand how to treat anything beyond acute pain. Do your research and if you can, find someone who will really listen to you. I know the pain clinic list here in my area (Vancouver Island) has a wait list of nearly 18 months!! There are just too many patients requiring treatment because they have fallen through the health care cracks.
Keep us posted with your progress and I hope you can find some support there.
Nancy James Thank you Janet and Karen - I so appreciate your comments and suggestions. As a matter of fact I have ... Read more
Nancy James Thank you Janet and Karen - I so appreciate your comments and suggestions. As a matter of fact I have a chronic pain management doctor walking distance to my house - He just moved there a couple of months ago...so it may be something to check into.
I was thinking since I start Cardiac Rehab on Monday that when I am assessed they may have some suggestions and since it's the same building as my cardiologist I am going to take all my blood pressure readings with me - He was trying to take me off Metoprolol and the bottom number really spiked so he put me back on 1/2 tablet 2x's a day. But I've been tracking my readings since Nov 6th and every one of the bottom numbers are in the 90s and 100s. I was told when I went to the ER that it could be dangerous and could cause me to have a stroke or a heart attack if we don't the numbers down - I'm scared for that and also for the pain I've had. At least by showing the doctors my chart of readings - he can see if I need to increase the dosage. I'm sure that will not make a difference with the pain but it will be one less thing to worry about.
I just want to say that I love this site - Thanks ADAM!!! It has helped me so much to be able to vent my feelings and my condition....I don't know where else I could go and not feel like an idiot for expressing the problems that I am experiencing. I don't mean to be a complainer - I'm just looking for answers from others to see if what they did could help me. God bless you all....and thank you.
Lilly Black Nancy, it took 2 years for me for the pain in my sternum to subside. My pain was all sternum related ... Read more
Lilly Black Nancy, it took 2 years for me for the pain in my sternum to subside. My pain was all sternum related. However, I stopped taking pain meds 2 days after surgery. Instead, I used gel ice packs for my sternum. They are soft and cold enough to keep the nerves and deep tissue from getting more inflamed, which was the cause for pain. For the incision, I used Neosporin pain relief ointment. As long as I kept up my daily regime with the ice packs on my sternum and sometimes heat pad on my back, I did fine. In addition, I was very careful about using my arms. If I wanted to lift something, I used both arms. I found that if I only used one side of my body, my sternum was impacted. When I had to move, or twist, reach for anything, or bend, I tried to do it evenly using my entire body rather than just one side. That allowed my sternum to heal evenly. Be very careful about your sternum.....it takes a long time to heal completely. It took me 8 weeks before I could drive as well..... just be patient with yourself. It takes time....take one day at a time and be good to yourself :)
Lexie Schwalbe Nancy, I have the same exact problem as you do, I am in extreme pain and I am post op 36 days. Call m ... Read more
Lexie Schwalbe Nancy, I have the same exact problem as you do, I am in extreme pain and I am post op 36 days. Call me 208-999-0266.
Nancy James Lexie - I haven't been on for a couple of weeks - and I just saw your phone number.....hope your pain ... Read more
Nancy James Lexie - I haven't been on for a couple of weeks - and I just saw your phone number.....hope your pain has gotten better....will try to call you soon....weekend is here - if it isn't too crazy I'll try to call you tomorrow....been hectic since I started rehab and with the holidays and with my family.....God bless.
I had my surgery on Sept 26 so I am at 6 weeks this week. Everything is doing great except I still have a great deal of discomfort and sometimes it's downright ...Read more
I had my surgery on Sept 26 so I am at 6 weeks this week. Everything is doing great except I still have a great deal of discomfort and sometimes it's downright pain across my upper chest shoulder to shoulder. Sometimes when reaching for something even a little a sharp pain goes under my armpit area and all across my chest. Sneezing, coughing and blowing my nose is painful. I wondered if using the breathing machine if maybe I didn't do it long enough. But the home nurse said as long as I was walking around and being active I didn't have to worry about doing it. I'm done with Hydromorphone so I don't have any pain medication to take. The doctor said to take Advil or Aleve - Aleve doesn't work for me I have tried it and it does nothing. Tylenol doesn't take away the pain. Taking 2 Advil isn't doing much either and I wondered if anyone else on the site has had the same problem and what they do. So I'm searching for some way of relieving the pain across my upper chest (arm to arm) . Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Hi Nancy. I can empathize. I'm still having similar pain now and then and today, I've have increased ... Read more
Hi Nancy. I can empathize. I'm still having similar pain now and then and today, I've have increased pain around my pacemaker. I think I overdid it yesterday: I was wearing a Holter monitor so didn't want to sit around. lol
Have you tried alternating ice pack and heat pad? It really helps me control my pain, although today, I've had to go back to extra strength Tylenol. We all react to pain differently so what works of me, might not work for someone else.
Nancy James Thanks for commenting Janet. I have tried heat - I really hate being cold - so have not done that. I ... Read more
Nancy James Thanks for commenting Janet. I have tried heat - I really hate being cold - so have not done that. I used a product called Penetrex that I get from Amazon for muscle tightness and I tried it and it helps to get to sleep when I put that one along with the heating pad - but it's the daily things - opening the washer or dryer (I have front loaders) - opening the card door - heavy doors going into buildings - I try to wait for help because I think the more I try to do with weighty things the more it aggravates the situation. I think I will try the Extra Strength Tylenol - I found some in my kitchen cabinet - and I also have Flexeril (muscle relaxer) but honestly nothing really seems to help much.
Clayton Mcarthur I too had a lot of that type of discomfort at about the same time. That you're talking about but it s ... Read more
Clayton Mcarthur I too had a lot of that type of discomfort at about the same time. That you're talking about but it seemed to gradually diminish after that and was about totally gone after 9 weeks hope the same works out for you
Gerald Poulton Hi Nancy, although the surgery seems easy, because it is so common and practiced, it still puts yout ... Read more
Gerald Poulton Hi Nancy, although the surgery seems easy, because it is so common and practiced, it still puts yout whole body through hell. You are still young at 6 weeks, grin but you will probably feel it diminish faster now. I am 3 months and although I dont hurt, sometimes you move wrong and you get a twinge or a muscle pulling or a pain around the ribs or tube scars. The sternotomy is not the bad part, it is when they open or separate your breast bone, what about 6 inches, you can just imagine how that affects your ribs, back, muscles and more. I think realistically it probably takes about a year to completely heal.
Hang in there, it only gets better. 💪
Wanda Mroz Have you tried to use heat or ice? Or perhaps get a script for a muscle relaxant? I had a lot of pa ... Read more
Wanda Mroz Have you tried to use heat or ice? Or perhaps get a script for a muscle relaxant? I had a lot of pain from my shoulder blades after surgery, and that combo helped but it took awhile to fully go away. I still have twinges now and then. That is a lot of trauma on the muscles and rib cage. Are you in cardiac rehab? Can they suggest something or some exercises?? Stretching??
Nancy James Have been in cardiac rehab since last week and it does help. I think I got a later start than I shou ... Read more
Nancy James Have been in cardiac rehab since last week and it does help. I think I got a later start than I should have getting into rehab - but they only have so many monitors and I had to wait to get on the list. I'm happy with my progress so far....and hope that I continue to feel better and stay encouraged. It's easy to get depressed but once you see that you are getting normal again - that's help so much!!!
Gerald Poulton Good for you Nancy, it can be a long road but it continually gets better, I am now 4 months post and ... Read more
Gerald Poulton Good for you Nancy, it can be a long road but it continually gets better, I am now 4 months post and could almost forget that I ever had surgery. Hang in there 👍
I was supposed to have my teeth cleaned today - something I schedule every 6 months - and while I was at the cardiologist he said if you go to the dentist for ...Read more
I was supposed to have my teeth cleaned today - something I schedule every 6 months - and while I was at the cardiologist he said if you go to the dentist for anything - cleaning, fillings, crowns, etc. I have to get a prescription for an antibiotic - so I told him that I needed some since my appointment was Nov 2nd. He said he wouldn't give me a prescription that I had to get it from my surgeon and yet my surgeon he would see me in a year. I don't know whether to call up to his office and ask them about it - I did cancel my appointment with the dentist until January but I don't know if I will be able to get the antibiotics from the surgeon, or my family physician....I asked the dentist office if they could get them for me and the girl said well if the surgeon or PCP doesn't give them to you we will see what we can do. Evidently when you have a pig valve of any artificial valve the germs and bacteria from the mouth will go right to the new valve and it will be a problem - no one said anything about that previous to my surgery.
Leslie Bakos WOW Nancy...getting your teeth cleaned....just 5 weeks out...impressive!!!
Barbara Wood Nancy, I've always heard to wait 6 months after valve surgery for any dental work, including cleaning ... Read more
Barbara Wood Nancy, I've always heard to wait 6 months after valve surgery for any dental work, including cleaning...
Leslie Bakos Singer Bobby Darin....messed up his heart valves from dental work and that led to another operation.. ... Read more
Leslie Bakos Singer Bobby Darin....messed up his heart valves from dental work and that led to another operation...he passed at 37.
Lilly Black Nancy, you did the right thing! If you can't get a prescription from anyone then why take the chance? ... Read more
Lilly Black Nancy, you did the right thing! If you can't get a prescription from anyone then why take the chance? My dentist can prescribe the antibiotics....so helpful! Maybe you can persuade your family physician to prescribe them. Good luck and take no chances✌️
Anna Jones Hi Nancy, I had a similar situation. My Cardiologists wants me to take an antibiotic an hour before ... Read more
Anna Jones Hi Nancy, I had a similar situation. My Cardiologists wants me to take an antibiotic an hour before having any dental work done. I told this to my dentist. She said that she wouldn't prescribe an antibiotic for me because according to the American Heart Association "it might do more harm than good".
I wound up getting the prescription from my Cardiologist. He said he wasn't happy that I was given "ignorant" advice from a dentist. He advised me strongly to change dentists.
Thereafter, I made an appointment with a different dentist, whom I like. This dentist has no trouble prescribing the precautionary antibiotic for me.
Maybe you want to look into finding a more amenable
Rose Madura My cardiologist prescribed them for me. I had a filling come our recently and took the antibiotic one ... Read more
Rose Madura My cardiologist prescribed them for me. I had a filling come our recently and took the antibiotic one hour before as directed. I don't understand why your cardiologist would not write the prescription if he is the one recommending it. You definitely should take it. Why don't you call the surgeon's office and ask tell them your dilema. They will help you I'm sure.
It has only been eleven weeks since my valve replacement so I canceled the cleaning scheduled for nex ... Read more
It has only been eleven weeks since my valve replacement so I canceled the cleaning scheduled for next week. In the past, my dentist has written me prescriptions for Amoxicillin - 2 gms one hour before any scheduled dental procedure, including cleaning. There seems to be confusion with dentists about whether antibiotics are needed or not. Both my dentist and my family physician me to take them.:
Here's the physicians' UpToDate link to recent guidelines;
Tanya Ammons My dentist has always called them in for me, but if you're concerned you should yet call your surgeon ... Read more
Tanya Ammons My dentist has always called them in for me, but if you're concerned you should yet call your surgeons office and ask.
Tanya Ammons And I will add, that anytime there is a heart condition, antibiotics should be given prior to dental ... Read more
Tanya Ammons And I will add, that anytime there is a heart condition, antibiotics should be given prior to dental work. I've had to take them for the past 20 years due to a bicuspid aortic valve, and will continue to need them now that I'm post op for the rest of my life. It's definitely a good call to cancel your dental appointment until you can get this straightened out. Good dental hygiene habits are especially important for us heart patients!
Rita Savelis Yes, it's a precaution that is usually taken. The dentist or any general practiotioner can get you th ... Read more
Rita Savelis Yes, it's a precaution that is usually taken. The dentist or any general practiotioner can get you the meds. It's just one take of antibiotics an hour before any cleaning.
Civita Fahey I just had my first dental cleaning after my surgery and I took one pill (antibiotic) one hour before ... Read more
Civita Fahey I just had my first dental cleaning after my surgery and I took one pill (antibiotic) one hour before. both my dentist, cardiologist and PCP agreed. Also, I got a little laminated card after surgery that tells me the procedures I would need antibiotics for and suggestions for which ones. I can't believe your dentist said that .. maybe he/she was thinking of the general idea that giving antibiotics out as frequently as they were given can do more harm than good.. but, if you have an artificial valve its not the same thing
Catie B My cardiologists have always prescribed, but I've also had dentists offer to write the script...
Bob Gillespie Went for my annual scope looking for bladder cancer. When I made the appointment the person said I w ... Read more
Bob Gillespie Went for my annual scope looking for bladder cancer. When I made the appointment the person said I wouldn't need any antibiotic. When I got there they said "Oh, you should have had an antibiotic!"
Cost me TWO shots of Ampicillin, one in each cheek. It wasn't comfortable.
Bob Gillespie Just call the surgeon, they can call it in
Herb Rosenstein Am a dentist. Always take four ,500mg. caps. one hour before dental appt.
Peggy Whitecotton
I Has foot surgery 4 momths after my heart valve surgery and my cardiologist insisted I be given ant ... Read more
Peggy Whitecotton
I Has foot surgery 4 momths after my heart valve surgery and my cardiologist insisted I be given antibiotics before and after surgery My surgeon agreed and said he had already planned to do just that...
Since my surgeon is over 2 hours away I decided to see a cardiologist in my town of Lynchburg, VA. That happened last week. I kind of thought it would be a ...Read more
Since my surgeon is over 2 hours away I decided to see a cardiologist in my town of Lynchburg, VA. That happened last week. I kind of thought it would be a little different so wanted to compare my experience with some of yours. They took an EKG, listened to my heart and lungs, and went over all my medications. I'm just at 5 week post-op and still have quite a bit of discomfort - especially when having a tough time having a bowel movement, the pain is on both sides of my upper chest. I wondered if that was normal. I was having a lot of pain from just under both arms and all the way across my upper chest for several days and it really hurt. At the point of my appointment with this cardiologist he said he wanted me to go off the pain killers. I have been on hydromorphone and Metroprolol and I was also on Tramadol (that was originally because of a torn meniscus in my right knee) The doctor would not prescribe any thing for the chest pain that I was having and just said it would get better in time and especially after I'm in cardiac rehab. Right now I'm only taking Advil when I need it - 2 tablets a couple of times a day and at night I've been taking 1/2 of hydromophone so I don't wake up in pain. I have also been on Flexeril (muscle relaxer) .
I just wondered how everyone is doing at the 5 week mark and if it normal to take a patient off all medications by the sixth week. He wanted me to take 1/2 of a metrprolol just once a day this week and then 1/2 every other day next week and then stop.
I'm still taking regular aspirin (325 mg) each day and my Vitamin D3 and Time Release Iron - since I was always anemic and also because I thought it would give me a little boost of energy.
I'd just like to know if this all seems normal for a heart patient. It still feels painful when I take deep breaths or if I sneeze or blow my nose - you never think you are using chest muscles when you blow your nose but you do!!!
I'm also scheduled for another echocardiogram on November 13th....I am finished with all my home care - the nurse, the physical therapist and the occupational therapist all signed me off since I'm getting around so well. I did start to drive short distances last week - but today when I picked up my grand daughter from school I could really feel the muscles in my chest hurting - especially when backing up and turning the wheel hard which was unavoidable getting out of a parking spot.
Any advice or comments would be appreciated!!!
Thanks
David Brunkhorst Everyone is different. Your doing good for 5 weeks out. Take stool softeners. I'm three years post op ... Read more
David Brunkhorst Everyone is different. Your doing good for 5 weeks out. Take stool softeners. I'm three years post op and I still take them. A big sneeze still hurts sometimes. It will keep getting better every week.
Nancy James I can't take stool softeners because I generally have severe colitis every day but sometimes I still ... Read more
Nancy James I can't take stool softeners because I generally have severe colitis every day but sometimes I still have a day or two when things aren't working that way. I just couldn't believe how much it hurt to push down but I do thank you for the suggestion because under normal circumstances that would be what I would do.
Appreciate your response!! Thanks!
Tina Williams Hi Nancy - I am also at 5 weeks post op. I've been off prescription pain meds x 3 weeks just because ... Read more
Tina Williams Hi Nancy - I am also at 5 weeks post op. I've been off prescription pain meds x 3 weeks just because I didn't like they way they made me feel. I take OTC Advil or Tylenol if nec but I know its going to hurt some. My pain sounds just like yours, right across the chest and when I deep breathe. I too have been driving but it can be uncomfortable when I have to turn my head far or the steering wheel quick. My doc is also weaning me off metoprolol. Other than that I take Plavix, Aspirin, and Prevacid and stool softener. I walk at least one mile per day but can still fall asleep at the drop of a hat. All in all, I feel like I'm making progress:)
Michael Kohring Everyone really is differently when it comes to healing. I stopped all pain meds at +3 weeks, have s ... Read more
Michael Kohring Everyone really is differently when it comes to healing. I stopped all pain meds at +3 weeks, have some tightness but all in all, feeling good; Metoprolol (beta blocker) was another story, I found side effects frustrating with dizziness and extreme exhaustion. No longer have to take it. Hang in there, Nancy! Give it time and you will be feeling great soon!
Rose Madura Hi Nancy. I think its all normal. I had pain in that area and when I thought everything was better I ... Read more
Rose Madura Hi Nancy. I think its all normal. I had pain in that area and when I thought everything was better I played 9 holes of golf. That same pain came back terribly the next day. Sounds like you are doing well. Maybe some arm stretches? Keep us posted.
Tanya Ammons You are doing great, as everyone has stated! I am 3 months post op and still feel discomfort in my up ... Read more
Tanya Ammons You are doing great, as everyone has stated! I am 3 months post op and still feel discomfort in my upper chest, especially on 1 side. I still can't open up new jars that require a firm grip and twist. I know it can be frustrating, just keep in mind that your body and those muscles went through some major trauma. It will get better, you just have to remain patient and positive!
Rita Savelis Hurray for you if you can stop betablockers! It's really great if you don't need to take those. As fa ... Read more
Rita Savelis Hurray for you if you can stop betablockers! It's really great if you don't need to take those. As far as pain goes, doctors do try to take patients off those meds fairly quickly which is not easy for some. Pain is so variable.
You do sound as if you are doing well, or as well as any OHS patient can possibly be. It is still so very early and exhaustion and discomfort can last a long
time. It is weird, I hear you, when doctors say you are doing great and you still feel like you are an OHS patient and barely over surgery.
It takes time.
Take care.
Nancy James My thanks to all of you for posting answers back....every time I ask a question it's great to know th ... Read more
Nancy James My thanks to all of you for posting answers back....every time I ask a question it's great to know that I have other people who have been through the same thing and are willing to help and share their experience with others. What a blessing!! Thanks so much to all of you.
Going off the Metroprolol has caused me some problems - I wound up in the ER last night....I called my surgeon's office today and his nurse told me to continue on what they told me to do and call the local cardiologist and tell him what she said and then she said if he didn't agree he needs to call my surgeon!! What has happened is my blood pressure has gone up a lot higher than it should be with the decrease. When the bottom number gets too high there's a reason - and if I continued I could cause some additional heart problems down the road. So even though I spent 6 1/2 hours in the ER - because I had some questions answered from the ER doctor and they ran a EKG and CT Scan which showed that everything is doing great inside me - but evidently making the change of my meds as the cardiologist I saw after my surgery - is not working for me. I asked my surgeon's nurse if she could refer me to someone in Charlottesville where I had the surgery done (UVA) - that works along with my surgeon and would both be in sinc. She said she would do that for me - it's worth driving 2 hours to feel confident in your doctor.
I had my appointment with my surgeon on Monday, the 16th. This is the first chance I've had to get back on my computer. Everything went really well and they ...Read more
I had my appointment with my surgeon on Monday, the 16th. This is the first chance I've had to get back on my computer. Everything went really well and they were extremely pleased with my progress- even to the point that the PA and surgeon said that I could start driving short distances next week. That was great to hear. I thought it would be 6-8 weeks and I'm allowed after 4 weeks.
My physical therapist was just here and she has been working on my leg strength and today I was able to go up the stairs - we have 18 steps to our second floor - and I didn't have to stop to catch my breath and my blood pressure only elevated a couple of points and then after resting for a few minutes it was back to 110/77. I'm feeling pretty good overall - My home health will end soon and then I'll go to one of the cardiac centers to get back into better shape and get stronger. I've always been a go-getter so trying to stay on top so I don't fall into depression. When I start to feel a little down I find something to do that's positive or call someone and take my mind off of myself and I find that it does the trick. Since the surgeon didn't replace the aorta I will have to go back once a year to have a CT Chest Scan to make sure that the aorta doesn't enlarge more than it already had.
I'm praying that it will be okay - thinking about going through surgery again is a little hard to deal with but I'm going to put it out of my mind and hope that the decision he made to just replace the aortic valve was all that ever had to be done. He felt that with the new valve that the aorta wouldn't be working so hard and wouldn't enlarge any more than it already had. So I'm praying he is right. Regardless, my surgeon Dr. John Kern was so good and he came to see me every day that I was in the hospital. I read where some people never see their surgeon after their surgery so I am happy that I had a surgeon who really felt like a friend and a person who truly cared about me. For anyone who is close to the University of Virginia Hospital in Charlottesville, VA - make sure you ask to see Dr. Kern - you will love him. The care from the nurses, staff people and the doctor were excellent. I feel like they were constantly in my corner and were helpful and friendly.
Rose Madura Glad all is going well for the most part. I understand about the surgeon. My surgeon was fabulous ... Read more
Rose Madura Glad all is going well for the most part. I understand about the surgeon. My surgeon was fabulous and also saw me daily - every time I was readmitted - which I thought was pretty amazing. I too had home health care for a while. Glad you did the steps! Sounds like you are on the right track. Please keep us updated.
Nancy James The only issue I have had the last 2 days is that I may have done a little too much - simple things l ... Read more
Nancy James The only issue I have had the last 2 days is that I may have done a little too much - simple things like opening the doors to the washer and dryer or trying to open kitchen doors that kinda stick - they are the kind that close themselves - but you have to tug them to open them - I started to put my hair back in the pony tail - my occupational therapy girl told me I could do that....as a matter of fact at the 3 week post-op visit last Monday they told me I could drive this week - but I haven't attempted it yet - just a little unsure of myself at this point.
The thing that is bothering me is that the muscles in my arms, armpits and across the top of my chest - not the area where the surgery was done - it very sore ad aches like crazy. I don't think I did any damage but it's very scary cause I don't want anything to stop me from recovering as soon as possible.
I wonder if anyone else has had muscular pain through the arms and upper chest. If so, what is a good way to ease the the discomfort. I will take a pain killer tonight so I can sleep....but I wondered if I can use heat or ice to make it better. Thanks!!
Rose Madura Yes, all those muscles were sore for a while. It's all pretty normal. It will get better. What help ... Read more
Rose Madura Yes, all those muscles were sore for a while. It's all pretty normal. It will get better. What helped me was to elevate my arms when sleeping and sitting - just put pillows under them.
My surgery was successful so much so that what was expected to be a 5 hour surgery was actually on 2 and1/2 hours. Dr. John Kern (best doctor in the world) ...Read more
My surgery was successful so much so that what was expected to be a 5 hour surgery was actually on 2 and1/2 hours. Dr. John Kern (best doctor in the world) was my surgeon at UVA in Charlottesville, VA. I was no prepared for the amount of pain - from reading all the posts on this site no one really talked about that which made me think it was going to be easier - but it was not. Honestly, my first words were I feel like I got hit by a Mack Truck. I could not have picked a better hospital, doctor or staff. They were wonderful. Every need was met to make me the most comfortable that I could be. As you all know, you finally fall into a deep sleep and it's time to get up for a heparin shot or get vitals. It's hard to get comfortable after surgery, but you manage the best that you can.
I was released from the hospital last Sunday - which meant my hospital stay was 6 days. Since I lived an hour and a half from the hospital they decided to keep me an extra day. My home never looked so good when I came through the door.
This week was going great eating wise, walking, going to the bathroom and managing all by myself, but on Thursday I started getting a severe back spasm on my right side. Everything tightened up all over my entire back. Then by Saturday the same thing happened on the left side - spasming and deep pain. My wonderful husband massaged my back but it hurt so bad. But I couldn't even sleep the pain was so bad. I do have a Home Health nurse and we talked to her a couple of times over the weekend. The suggestions were drink more water, cold packs and hot packs. Those things didn't seem to make a change. Even this morning when I yawn, deep breathe, or sneeze I can feel that deep pain stabbing me. So I wondered if anyone else had this experience and what was done to make you more comfortable.
I am already taking a muscle relaxer and hydromorphine tablets....I hate feeling sleepy and then can't fall asleep. I know rest and sleep is important but when you are in pain it's not good. Surprisingly, the chest pain from the surgery is not bad at all....it has improved greatly since last week.
If anyone can share any information that might be helpful I'd appreciate it so much. I need relief so bad right now. Your suggestions would mean everything right now.
God Bless,
Nancy
Gerald Poulton Hi Nancy, glad that you came through the surgery so quickly, less hours on the machine helps. The pai ... Read more
Gerald Poulton Hi Nancy, glad that you came through the surgery so quickly, less hours on the machine helps. The pain is different for everyone and I think a lot of the back and shoulder pain is caused when they spread your chest open after the the Sternotomy. My pain from that was more discomfort but again everyone is differrent. Hooe your pain goes soon and thank God for caring spouses 💐
Laura Shepherd I'm glad you're over the part that I call scary. Praying that pain resides.
Amy Steele Hi Nancy! Glad to hear that your surgery went well, but sorry to hear that you've been having so muc ... Read more
Amy Steele Hi Nancy! Glad to hear that your surgery went well, but sorry to hear that you've been having so much back pain. I can definitely relate! I had surgery 1 year ago and experienced severe back pain, and experienced the same severe back pain after having my sternum repaired 4 weeks ago. In fact, the second time around, I ended up sleeping in the chair in my hospital room because my back hurt too much in the bed... even with the good pain meds! I found that sleeping in a recliner at home, supported with LOTS of pillows helped alleviate the back pain enough to get some rest. Medication, heat and massage didn't really help, and the pain didn't really get better until I went to my chiropractor and she worked on the joints in my back where the ribs connect. Fortunately, my chiropractor uses an activator tool so I didn't have to move in order for her to adjust me. I just sat on the edge of her table and she was able to do her thing. She couldn't do a complete workup, but enough to keep the back muscles from spasming. I hope you can find relief soon, I know how the stabbing pain hurts with every breath...
Laura Jacobs Hi Nancy, I remember the back and shoulder pain. That was the hardest part for me. I bought a large g ... Read more
Laura Jacobs Hi Nancy, I remember the back and shoulder pain. That was the hardest part for me. I bought a large gel ice pack which provided significant relief. I did not find that regular ice packs worked at all, nor did a heating pad.
Rose Madura HI Nancy, I hope your pains subsides soon. My incision was not painful but I did have the terrible s ... Read more
Rose Madura HI Nancy, I hope your pains subsides soon. My incision was not painful but I did have the terrible shoulder pain. Using pillows to elevate your arms may help. It did for me.
Rita Savelis I agree with your Mack truck analogy, Nancy. Have also heard others refer to OHS as getting hit by a ... Read more
Rita Savelis I agree with your Mack truck analogy, Nancy. Have also heard others refer to OHS as getting hit by a cruise missile. For some it's pain, for most there is lots of discomfort. It's all hard, and I have compassion for you as you go through this time, and hope that you get some relief soon.
Shannon Gray Hi! I am sorry about your pain and discomfort. It's such a relief to get through the surgery, and no ... Read more
Shannon Gray Hi! I am sorry about your pain and discomfort. It's such a relief to get through the surgery, and no one tells you about all that could happen following. If it's a stabbing/ sharp pain in your chest or back, especially when you inhale...it could be pericarditis. ( very common following heart surgery). I would call your cardiologist and go over the symptoms with them, to be sure. Thinking of you!
Nancy James Thanks to all of you who commented on the back pain issue. It's always good to know that you are the ... Read more
Nancy James Thanks to all of you who commented on the back pain issue. It's always good to know that you are the only one having particular issues and it's all part of the recovery process. My husband has been a lifesaver massaging my back before bedtime and I use a product I got from Amazon can Penetrex which really helped and doesn't have a strong smell...but I also think the healing touch of a loved one is helpful too. The spasms have not reoccured but the feeling of tightness of back muscles still comes and goes throughout the day. But it's manageable. I was given a muscle relaxer too which keeps things at the lower level of discomfort. God bless you all.
I live about 2 hours from the hospital so we are leaving early this afternoon so that we will be in place for tomorrow. They don't give you a time till the ...Read more
I live about 2 hours from the hospital so we are leaving early this afternoon so that we will be in place for tomorrow. They don't give you a time till the day before so I won't hear the time of my surgery until after 2 pm this afternoon. I wish I knew now. I guess there is a reason for that, but it's kinda frustrating to not know.
My whole family came over to my house last night to have a get together and spend time with 7 of my 12 grand children. It was so sweet of them to do that...the family makes it all worthwhile. I'll be able to give a report once I get back on my computer - I wasn't planning on taking it to the hospital - but if I can get on my iphone and post something I will. I'm not sure I want to have pictures of me looking bad - guys have the advantage of showing their scar after surgery - us girls - not so much. LOL God bless to everyone - to those who like me are having surgery this week especially. The nerves have actually calmed down - but I'm sure tonight will not be getting much sleep.
Jane Neulieb Nancy, we will be sending good hugs your way. Modern medicine is awesome and you will be amazed how ... Read more
Jane Neulieb Nancy, we will be sending good hugs your way. Modern medicine is awesome and you will be amazed how fast it goes and before you know it you will be making the trip back home after surgery. The doctors and nurses know what they are doing and your surgery will be fine!! Onward to health!!
Tina Williams Nancy....thinking of you. You are so blessed - sounds like you have a wonderful family. Please keep ... Read more
Tina Williams Nancy....thinking of you. You are so blessed - sounds like you have a wonderful family. Please keep in touch!
Prayers your way tomorrow for your heart team and you.
Rose Madura Best wishes. The odds are in your favor. God bless you and keep us posted when you can.
Sending you blessings for a smooth surgery and recovery. You have lots of positive energy around you ... Read more
Sending you blessings for a smooth surgery and recovery. You have lots of positive energy around you ... think of all those grandkids. Beautiful!
Craig Irving Best of luck Nancy. Praying for your successful surgery and fast recovery
Laura Jacobs All the best to you tomorrow Nancy!!! Hoping for a a smooth and speedy recovery!!!
Steven A Husted best of luck in your recovery may the lord be with you i will be praying for you
John Clough Good luck be patient you should do ok.
Nancy James Thanks to all of you who sent prayers and good wishes. It's the support and love of friends and famil ... Read more
Nancy James Thanks to all of you who sent prayers and good wishes. It's the support and love of friends and family that makes the difference it helping to get us through those hard times. I am blessed to have had hundreds of people praying for me and my daughters and husband have been with me helping me as I recover.
I went to Abington High School in Abington, Pennsylvania (outside Philadelphia) and this weekend is my 50th class reunion. It has been a great distraction ...Read more
I went to Abington High School in Abington, Pennsylvania (outside Philadelphia) and this weekend is my 50th class reunion. It has been a great distraction enjoying buying some new clothes and things for our trip. Once I get back on Sunday night I will be able to relax the whole week and be ready for my surgery on Tuesday, the 26th. Staying calm and not getting stressed has been the hardest thing to do since I found out on June 27th that I needed heart surgery. I feel like my life has taken a crazy turn - and I will be happy when it is all behind me so that I can move on and do the things that make me happiest - spending time with my family.
Rose Madura I understand that feeling of anxiousness and wanting to get it over with. Best wishes.
Clayton Mcarthur From my perspective it was better to get it over with than sitting around and thinking about it. The ... Read more
Clayton Mcarthur From my perspective it was better to get it over with than sitting around and thinking about it. The sternotomy sounds extreme but is probably one of the better ways to do the procedure, everything is right there for them to quickly do it and get you off the pump
I had my pre-op appointment at UVA (University of Virginia) on Monday and I'm ready now. When I originally came to this site I was with a different doctor ...Read more
I had my pre-op appointment at UVA (University of Virginia) on Monday and I'm ready now. When I originally came to this site I was with a different doctor and didn't realize that I hadn't changed it - I had my second opinion and loved the doctor at UVA and I felt that was where I would be comfortable for my care and my surgery. Everything is on schedule and although I get scared reading through the material at times, I'm ready to get this done with and get on with my life.!!
Margot Swann Nancy, I've read the progression of your postings and see you've come a long way. I hope you're prou ... Read more
Margot Swann Nancy, I've read the progression of your postings and see you've come a long way. I hope you're proud of yourself! My surgery is just a week later - full open heart for aortic valve replacement. We're just to healthy for the less invasive procedures. I guess that's a good thing.
We have to decide to be courageous and trust all will be well.
Nancy James Thanks Margot....I get on this site and then forget about it for a few days and then feel the need to ... Read more
Nancy James Thanks Margot....I get on this site and then forget about it for a few days and then feel the need to connect with others in the same situation. Best of everything to you on your surgery and recovery....God bless.
Laura Jacobs Having confidence in your surgery and feeling good about the hospital is so critical. I am so glad th ... Read more
Laura Jacobs Having confidence in your surgery and feeling good about the hospital is so critical. I am so glad that you found someone you can trust. All the best for you Nancy!!!
Judy Willcutt That's exactly how I feel, Nancy. I'm ready to get this over so I can have some energy, and can breat ... Read more
Judy Willcutt That's exactly how I feel, Nancy. I'm ready to get this over so I can have some energy, and can breath normally again.
Mine isn't listed either.
I'm kinda wondering why my name isn't listing on the upcoming surgeries - is there something special you need to do to get there? Could someone let me know. ...Read more
I'm kinda wondering why my name isn't listing on the upcoming surgeries - is there something special you need to do to get there? Could someone let me know. Thanks. (My surgery is going to be on September 26th.
Nancy James I just figured it out so hopefully it will get listed soon. Thanks.
Bob Gillespie You have to post a picture for your profile
Nancy James Thanks Bob....with all that's going on in my life - my husband has been sick and in the hospital the ... Read more
Nancy James Thanks Bob....with all that's going on in my life - my husband has been sick and in the hospital the last couple of weeks - my brain has been fried. I have a disabled daughter who is very sick - there's been times I wondered if I should even go through all this - but then I think if I feel better in the long run then I'll be in better shape to help my other family members - it's just going to be hard. I know that this HAS to be done - I have no choice or it will only get worse and shorten my life and my family needs me.
Sandy Laine Hi, Nancy - it's the profile picture you have to change - under control panel
Sandy Laine Sorry - hit the wrong button - but control panel, then profile settings, then update profile pic. As ... Read more
Sandy Laine Sorry - hit the wrong button - but control panel, then profile settings, then update profile pic. As long as the picture beside your name is not the grey head shape - the dates don't register.
Good luck with your picture AND your procedure.
Soggy Rodent Hang tough Nancy! It's so hard when challenges keep coming at you. I really needed somebody to help m ... Read more
Soggy Rodent Hang tough Nancy! It's so hard when challenges keep coming at you. I really needed somebody to help me after surgery. Could you wait until your husband has recovered before having surgery so that he can help you?
Nancy James My husband is doing a lot better - my oldest daughter is actually coming up from Raleigh NC to spend ... Read more
Nancy James My husband is doing a lot better - my oldest daughter is actually coming up from Raleigh NC to spend the time with me at the hospital and also staying with me for several weeks once I get home. Thanks for your comment.
Nancy James Sandy - thanks for that advice - I didn't notice all that so I really appreciate that you told me how ... Read more
Nancy James Sandy - thanks for that advice - I didn't notice all that so I really appreciate that you told me how it works. This site is really amazing though - whoever put it together was excellent.
I have a question and wanted to see if anyone else experienced anything like this. I have to have an aortic valve and my aorta replaced and will be doing ...Read more
I have a question and wanted to see if anyone else experienced anything like this. I have to have an aortic valve and my aorta replaced and will be doing so in late September or sometime in October once I see another doctor for a second opinion. Last night I got so tired of sleeping in a sitting up position that I turned to my right side to get comfortable I immediately started having quite a bit of pain on around my heart - I tried this 3 different times and the same thing happened which left me scared and unable to fall back asleep. Is this a normal thing that happens when the aortic valve isn't working properly - I'm wondering if I will last long enough to wait to have the second opinion and surgery in 7-8 weeks. Any input would be greatly appreciated.
Phyllis Petersen Before I had my mitral valve repaired, I would get serious thumping when laying on my right side, whi ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen Before I had my mitral valve repaired, I would get serious thumping when laying on my right side, which was uncomfortable, but no actual pain. After surgery, the weirdest thing to get used to was how quiet my heart is now. Even with exertion, I don't hear it thumping anymore. What happens when you lay on your left side? Is it better?
Marie Myers I had an AVR and aneurysm resection 4 months ago. But I did not experience symptoms like you describ ... Read more
Marie Myers I had an AVR and aneurysm resection 4 months ago. But I did not experience symptoms like you describe. But you have to remember, every case is a little different. It is good you had other issues like blockages ruled out, so you are ahead of the game at this point. Hope you find out what is causing your symptoms.
Nancy James Thanks for answering so quickly....I'm not comfortable sleeping on my left side because I sleep so cl ... Read more
Nancy James Thanks for answering so quickly....I'm not comfortable sleeping on my left side because I sleep so close to the edge of the bed because my dog sleeps up against me....I'll try that tonight though and see if the pain is there when I change sides. Since I woke up there is tightness on the left side near by heart and underarm....but it's not the sharp pain I felt when I laid down last night. I know how important sleep is and for the body to rest and I'm just not able to fall back to sleep once I wake up - I can watch TV or read or play a game on my phone for hours and I don't get sleepy again until the break of day and I have to get up to walk the dog. I bought some Tums and will try that too - but heartburn never felt like this before - this was a lot more extreme. Since my heart checked out and my heart catherization showed no blockages I think I'm okay - but when you get sharp pain like that - it is cause for concern. If it keeps up I'll call my cardiologist on Monday.
thanks again your responses, Phyllis and Marie!!!
Marie Myers You brought up a good idea.. Try taking something like Nexium for a week or too. If it is acid reflux ... Read more
Marie Myers You brought up a good idea.. Try taking something like Nexium for a week or too. If it is acid reflux related, that should help. Some times acid reflux pain is pretty dramatic. Hope that helps.
Phyllis Petersen We've all had fear drummed into our heads when it comes to the heart, and pain is incredibly scary. S ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen We've all had fear drummed into our heads when it comes to the heart, and pain is incredibly scary. Since surgery, I don't wake fully as often (there's still the annoying trips to the bathroom). I do remember symptoms getting worse in the months before surgery. Be vocal! They may not be able to do anything to help you, but your doctors should be aware of what you're going through. Good luck getting through the process!
I am able to sleep laying down. However I very frequently have rapid heart rate when laying on my ri ... Read more
I am able to sleep laying down. However I very frequently have rapid heart rate when laying on my right side especially, occasionally left side as well. I have to get up rato make it stop. If I don't and it continued my body starts shaking. It's scares me so much. I have even woke out of a sound sleep and it must have been on a while, it took being up decor 30 mins to stop shaking.
Oops it's my left side that usually caused the rapid heart rate, not my right.
Steve Farthing Yes I've had that and as Marie mentioned and also in my case it is usually acid reflux. My favorite ... Read more
Steve Farthing Yes I've had that and as Marie mentioned and also in my case it is usually acid reflux. My favorite for that is Pepcid(famotidine).
I am seeing my surgeon for the first time since I was diagnosed with Aortic regurgitation. I had all the tests and he will be going over them with me tomorrow. ...Read more
I am seeing my surgeon for the first time since I was diagnosed with Aortic regurgitation. I had all the tests and he will be going over them with me tomorrow. I don't know this doctor from Adam, but his reviews are good. I have been told I should get another opinion and have checked with my insurance and I could go to UVA which is about 90 minutes from home. I am not really sure what the process is to get a second opinion and have stressed about it....any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!!
Catie B If your insurance is a PPO, you can call whoever you wish and secure an appt, as long as they're in y ... Read more
Catie B If your insurance is a PPO, you can call whoever you wish and secure an appt, as long as they're in your network. If you have an HMO, you'll need to get your primary care dr. to write a referral for your second-opinion surgeon. You can learn a lot about surgeons online--you want someone who has done many aortic valve operations. Have your cardiologist's office send over copies of your records, including tests like echos.
Rita Savelis I'm hoping that you'll like the surgeon you see tomorrow. And I'm sorry that you have to go through v ... Read more
Rita Savelis I'm hoping that you'll like the surgeon you see tomorrow. And I'm sorry that you have to go through valve replacement. It's hard for everyone......and then we move on and take the next steps. Take care Nancy.
Nancy James I did meet the surgeon that my primary care doctor set up for me as a result of the echocardiogram. ... Read more
Nancy James I did meet the surgeon that my primary care doctor set up for me as a result of the echocardiogram. I don't feel completely comfortable with him....that's why I have been researching many doctors on my network I have Humana and I have checked that UVA and Carillon are both in the network so I have some options. It's hard to put your life into the hands of someone you don't know. Maybe I put too much on looks or demeanor, but you know some people just don't click so my husband is going with me tomorrow to get his feel on this surgeon and I will definitely still get a second opinion because I want to see if I'm a candidate for a less invasive surgery. I've been anticipating this appointment for 2 weeks since my heart catherization. It's with trepidation that I go since I'm not sure if I like this doctor or not - and I do know that it is my right to choose someone I do feel comfortable with. Has anyone else had that happen where you just don't really like the doctor you were sent to? Thanks.
Bob Fessler Nancy, I went to the surgeon my cardiologist first referred me to. Then I made a second appointment ... Read more
Bob Fessler Nancy, I went to the surgeon my cardiologist first referred me to. Then I made a second appointment with another surgeon telling them what tests I've had and who did them so they could get them. I next called my cardiologist and told them I was consulting with the second surgeon and if that surgeon neded a referral to please give it to him. It all worked out smoothly.
Barbara Wood I also have Humana- my cardiologist recommended the first one, & a friend who had the same surgery ab ... Read more
Barbara Wood I also have Humana- my cardiologist recommended the first one, & a friend who had the same surgery about 8 years ago recommended the 2nd ( & I had my pcp gave me a referral for the second). I was hoping for a repair rather than a replacement. I liked both- but chose the first one. He didn't have as " warm" a personality, but he had obviously reviewed my case extensively & my husband & I both felt he was the right guy for us. I think I would have been fine with either, but very happy with the surgery experience. Best of luck to you Nancy!
Catie B One surgeon I with had a superb reputation. However, I did not he "heard" me about a secondary medica ... Read more
Catie B One surgeon I with had a superb reputation. However, I did not he "heard" me about a secondary medical issue that would need to be accommodated during hospitalization and recovery. This really gave me pause, and I went a different direction.
Steve Farthing I consulted my PCP, one cardiologist and 3 surgeons. Ultimately, the third surgeon did my mitral val ... Read more
Steve Farthing I consulted my PCP, one cardiologist and 3 surgeons. Ultimately, the third surgeon did my mitral valve repair since he knew how to do it endoscopically thru one small incision.
Rose Madura Thankfully, my cardiologist recommended the best surgeon. We were fortunate in that we knew three nu ... Read more
Rose Madura Thankfully, my cardiologist recommended the best surgeon. We were fortunate in that we knew three nurses who worked with him at different times and each one raved about him. Then when we met with the cardiac nurse at the hospital to watch a video on what to expect, she gave us a fourth opinion and stated that we had won the lottery with getting this surgeon. She called him brilliant. He not only was a great surgeon he was very personable with a wonderful bedside manner. I wish you the best in finding the best one for you.
Rita Savelis Utimately one doesn't need the best surgeon, one just needs a good surgeon who has experience with on ... Read more
Rita Savelis Utimately one doesn't need the best surgeon, one just needs a good surgeon who has experience with one's specific problem.
I've had warm personable surgeons, and others who weren't so warm, but all have done a good job.
Wishing you the best.
Nancy James Thanks to all of you who responded to my post. It is getting closer - September 26th is my surgery da ... Read more
Nancy James Thanks to all of you who responded to my post. It is getting closer - September 26th is my surgery date. I have one other question. My 50th class reunion is the 15-16-17th of September and it's about 350 miles from home. I'm very excited about going but someone told me I was nuts going with the upcoming surgery and should not do anything 2 weeks prior to my surgery. To me this is a good thing - I'm looking forward to something other than my surgery and I think that is good. But I wondered if anyone else had a opinion on this-I'm thinking we all go through stress no matter what we do prior to open heart surgery so what difference could it make. Thanks for your answers. God bless.
Rita Savelis I say do whatever you want to do and whatever feels good during the 2 weeks prior to surgery.
I can' ... Read more
Rita Savelis I say do whatever you want to do and whatever feels good during the 2 weeks prior to surgery.
I can't imagine why "someone" would say otherwise.
Take care Nancy.