any advice please

[benson1979]

Week 5 and feeling down today, my chest is sore and I'm washed out and breathless, should I be worried or is this normal at this stage.

[skid112 Heart Star]

Hi Benson,

more or less normal, some the breathlessness has eased as has the chest pain, others not so much. Are you following your breathing exercises to help your lungs and chest? What about walking to get some exercise and fill those lungs up? I realise the weather hasn't been to good but even a stroll round the lounge/kitchen will be helping. The feeling down is also something experienced by many of us, please don't let this fester, talk to your GP about some counselling, at this stage you haven't started your rehab classes, many of these also offer some sort of counselling as well

take care

Mark

[Ashleigh_BHF]

Hi benson1979

Sorry to hear you're struggling a little after your surgery.

As skid112 says, it's totally normal to feel as you do. Tenderness around your chest wound is to be expected and it's important not to overdo it and push yourself too hard in the early stages of your recovery. If you have any concerns about your breathlessness it would be a good idea to see your GP.

If you haven't been referred yet, cardiac rehabilitation classes will really help, you will have a good understanding of what's normal at each stage in recovery and they are a great support network in those days when you feel low after surgery. If you're unsure if you've been referred, ask your GP or check your paperwork from the hospital.

You can contact our Heart Helpline on 0300 330 3311 or email us at [e-mail] to speak to cardiac nurses if you have any questions about your recovery or feel you need more support. We can also tell you where your nearest cardiac rehabilitation classes are, so if you need any information or advice please contact us.

Best of luck and hope you're feeling better soon.

Ashleigh

[gal4God]

I’m 7 months in recovery from heart surgery still got chest pains and breathing difficulties been told it’s normal.

[sandrann in reply to gal4God]

Hi there gal4God, although maybe not much comfort to you but I too have been told it's normal to experience chest pains..I had both mammary arteries used with my double bypass graft six months ago which they say contributes to the discomfort I'm having...I do find walking, albeit a gentle stroll somedays, and not always outdoors depending on the weather, does help relieve the pain and remembering to practice the daily deep breathing exercises helps...we are all different in our healing and I hope you're soon feeling the benefit of the surgery.

[gal4God in reply to sandrann]

I’m

Walking loads and finding it helps. I find it harder wen relaxing at night. Not working at the mo tho wich helps.

[Nanpan]

Hi Benson

Quite normal to feel how you do my chest was sore for months we are all different these things take time, just take each day as it comes when you feel up to it do a little walking and gradually increase the amount you do your body will tell you when it has had enough.

All the best