CHEST PAIN AND FATIGUE AFTER 10 MONTHS

[DavidKeith52]

Hi folks, it’s now been 10 months since my triple bypass and I’m still suffering from chest pain and fatigue. In addition to the scar not healing properly and being very sensitive to touch, it feels like the nerves and muscles have been damaged as well. I’ve been going to cardiac rehab for a few months now, and walk my dogs every morning, but it seems like the more I do, the worse the pain. I also get very tired after any physical activity. I just wondered if anyone else is in a similar situation. The light at the end of the tunnel is getting dimmer instead of brighter.

[jimmyq]

I had 4xCABGs in 1997. It took me a few months to recover but the scars (chest and leg) took longer to heal properly.

Have a word with a doctor or nurse at your next rehab session. Let us know how you get on.

[invictaAlec]

Hi David,

You are ahead of me by about five months, my triple bypass was in June. Your post highlights the one area of aftercare that I think needs improving. In a word reassurance!

Underlying many posts on this forum is the question...... is this normal!? In the loneliness of the night I've often found myself worrying about every little twinge. Little chats at the rehab classes where others say "Oh yes, I get that too" are invaluable and reassuring.

Fatigue? yes I struggle especially if I miss my afternoon nap (I'm 68 by the way).

Sensitive scar? nope, quite the opposite. I have an area that feels totally numb which I put down to nerve endings not repairing yet.

Damaged muscles? yes I can't lift my right arm above my head any longer. I'm told that your body gets shoved into some weird positions during surgery.

Chest pain? absolutely not. Once I weaned myself off the pain killers after a few weeks I've had no further chest pains. Wheezy yes, (which I find difficult to understand as I've been given new tubes) but no pain. I'd ask your GP to investigate that.

Good luck, let us know how you get on.

Alec.

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Hi Dave,I had a cabg x 5 in April my leg scar is healing good,my arm and chest scars are healing,but they are itching and burning.I put an ice pack on them,seems to work. I am 62 fit and working but I also like a nap in the afternoon.Take care x.