Valve replacement

[Nanny72]

Why am I so tired after valve replacement

[Fredders]

You don't say when you had your valve replaced, but I still get tired and I had mine done in November. It takes quite a long time for the anaesthetic to completely clear your system and it also depends on how long you were in theatre. It also could be that you are not getting enough deep sleep at night, I was 'napping' at night as I was constantly waking up.

If you are still worried, give the cardiology department a ring and they should be able to tell you whether it is anything to be concerned about.

Wendy

[Nanny72 in reply to Fredders]

It was done 1st Jan but I didn't come off ventilator until 10th Jan. Came home yesterday

[Mary_Janet in reply to Nanny72]

Being exhausted is to be expected after an operation of this magnitude, a long anaesthetic and ventilation. The exhaustion although frustrating is the body's way of healing itself and not letting you do too much. Try and sleep/rest both at night and if possible during the lunch. At this stage I was exhausted by the time I had showered and dressed. I am afraid it's baby steps , slow and steady not pushing yourself . You will get there but everything takes time. You doing great and it will be worth it in the end. Mary.

[Fredders]

It's very early days then. Don't worry, it will get better. When I first came home just walking up the stairs would wipe me out. Like Mary says you need to pace yourself whilst still pushing yourself. I still have a problem with breathlessness but part of that is because I haven't done as much walking as I should have because of the bad weather - the cold makes me struggle to breath.

I found taking a nap after lunch very helpful n the early days, especially if you're struggling to sleep at night.

Hope your recovery goes well.

Wendy

[gal4God]

I had a valve replacement 4 months ago and I feel really tired. I would say I get a max of 3 of really being awake. I’m also unusually tired where i can’t sleep till 2am and wake around 11am.

[MKB38]

Oh Nanny, give your body a chance! I am 8 weeks post AVR and whilst I'm just beginning to feel much more like my old self now, I still have a short nap in the afternoon. Take it easy, listen to your body and you'll recover much more quickly. Overdoing it will only set you back. Good luck.