Anxious about the wait for urgent AVR

[Lucy_Hall]

Following symptoms around 8 weeks ago, I've been undergoing tests that have concluded that I require an urgent AVR. I have seen the surgeon and am reconciled with the need for surgery, but I am anxious about the wait of at least 3 to 4 months.

I am 64, otherwise healthy, struggle with slowing down, but am very weary and get easily breathless. I know I need to stay active but I am scared of over exerting. I live by myself but I do have lots of friends who want to help but to be honest this feels like a ticking time bomb that is with me every minute.

I keep getting reassuring strokes about how many people my friends know who've had the surgery and are fine, but that's not my worry - it's the staying safe until surgery. And with the winter on us the 3 to 4 months prediction may well be extended.

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

Hello and welcome to the forum! I had quite a wait for my bypass surgery, and was very limited during the last few months before surgery by angina and breathlessness. The best you can do is to keep active and mobile as much as you can within the limitations your condition is imposing upon you. One area to focus on is your core strength so you can stand up from a sitting position without using your arms - a no-no post OHS (open heart surgery).

I note you live by yourself. It is worth thinking about the post discharge situation. You really need someone around for the first week after discharge (not 24x7 but not left alone for extended periods) as you will still be exhausted and tired. Ticktock61 (who documented his experience on here) went to a care/nursing after discharge and this may be worth considering.

Also always remember to contact your GP, 111 or 999 if things change. Despite the pressure they are under the NHS respond very fast in a real emergency!