How to Care for Yourself After Open-Heart Surgery

Open-heart surgery is usually performed to rectify congenital defects in a heart, to replace a defective valve or to bypass blood supply around blocked heart arteries. To benefit the most from the surgery, it's important to take care of yourself during the healing process.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Disclose all the facts about your present health condition to your doctor. The benefits you can expect will differ depending on your present heart and physical conditions.
2. Ask your surgeon if you need to make any changes in your present lifestyle that could improve the benefits of the surgery. For example, if you are a smoker it is best to stop smoking immediately to avoid risks and gain maximum benefits from the surgery.
3. Do as much research as you can about the upcoming surgery and how to maximize the benefits.
4. Maximize the benefits of the surgery by taking care of yourself afterward. Wear snug elastic stockings during the day (and remove them at night) for at least two weeks after the surgery, to aid blood flow and help reduce swelling in the legs.
5. Don't take any tub baths for four to six weeks after your surgery, or until your incisions have healed. Showers are OK, and you may gently wash (but don't rub) your incision with soap. Do not use creams or lotions on incisions until they are healed.
6. Avoid crossing your legs, which slows blood flow. If your legs or feet swell, put them up on a chair or stool.
7. Try to avoid situations, people and topics of conversation that make you tense or angry, which will put strain on your heart.
8. Pace yourself and take it easy while you recover. Avoid lifting anything more than 10 pounds. Go slowly if you have to climb stairs, and use the handrail. If you feel tired or fatigued, don't push yourself—just stop and rest for a while.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose your surgeon carefully and discuss about all the possible risks and benefits of the surgery.