Breathless

[Madgranny2]

Anyone had a valve and artery replacement and get little breathless ?

It's 4 weeks since the op and, I'm walking at normal pace for half an hour a day. The breathlessness isn't bad and I've no pain but just curious. Sure I read somewhere it does take a while to get fit and getting a bit out of breath might happen

[skid112 Heart Star]

Hi madgranny, perfectly normal your lungs are still getting back to normal as is your heart, the more you do the better you get, suffered exactly the same and yes still do at times

[Fredders]

Hi, depends a lot on how fit you were before your op aswell. I was reasonably okay, but did get out of breath quite easily, especially if trying to walk and talk! After my AVR op I still struggled for several weeks but it gradually improved. Don't forget it was a big op and your lungs also have to recover from the anaesthetic, so after 4 weeks I wouldn't be unduly concerned. Have you got a check up at 6 weeks? If so, mention it to your cardiologist if it's still a concern. I think it took me a good couple of months before I really felt better.

[Madgranny2]

Thanks both of you. I was not first before op at all, everything was an effort, so that's improved. I have my post op check and valve scan to make sure it's working ok in 2 weeks. Thanks again the answers helped. Joan

[Emily_BHF]

Hi madgranny,

Sorry to hear that you have been experiencing these symptoms. I hope they improve alongside your recovery.

You will be referred to cardiac rehabilitation classes which are run by specialist nurses and exercise specialists. Participation of this is really important to facilitate a good recovery. Cardiac rehabilitation is a programme of exercise and information sessions to help you get back on your feet again.

The sessions will give you and your family the information, support and advice you need to get back to everyday life as efficiently and successfully as possible.

There is lots of information about this on our website.

Take care,

Emily

[Madgranny2 in reply to Emily_BHF]

Thanks Emily, I am on the list for rehabilitation. The cardio nurse I saw last week had put it back due to the wound infection but I di intend to go