Can’t sleep 3 weeks after CABG x3

[Froggie0208]

I’m finding it very difficult to get comfortable at night it’s making me feel very emotional, I hate night times. I have a recliner and also tried sleeping in bed but sleeping upright is wearing me out, if I try to sleep upright on my side my sternum clicks when I breathe. Is this normal. 😢

[Evans123]

Hi Froggie0208

I had a CABG June 2018 I didn’t find it to difficult sleeping on my back supported but that was mainly due to taking a small dose of a sleeping tablet, which I’m not necessarily recommending. I had also been sleeping supported prior to my operation so I had sometime to adjust to the position. It did take me a couple of months before I could sleep on my side though.

I do think the emotional side does take time to recover from and can be a major part of the recovery process as the physical side. I must admit though I am an anxious person by nature and waiting for the operation which was months had heightened my anxiety levels.

It will take time and if you are struggling which is affecting your welfare could you speak to your GP?

One thing I would totally recommend is the rehab classes. I still go to a gentle exercise class ‘phase 4’ once a week although myself and several others are probably past this stage we still support each other mentally.

Good luck with your recovery take it a day at a time and keep us updated.

Take care

Jacqui

[Gail1967]

I found it easier to sleep on my back but with a cushion or pillow under one shoulder so that I was slightly to the side. It gets easier- 4 months on I sleep however I like!!! The emotional side won’t be helped by lack of sleep- deprivation of sleep is a form of torture!!!

[jelliebean9]

Hi sylvie

I did send you a private msg

I forgot to mention the emotional side . I was in tears on many occasions!! Normal let it out.

i have a good family around me and they tried to get me intrested in something . Knitting didnt work and neither did puzzles lol but what did give me a different outlook on life was bird watching .

My closest sister and i went on many a walk through the woods even if only for 15 min on a bad day

I now will walk 5 miles or more on a wetland reserve, rspb walk or a canal walk and loving it.

Nature got me through .

Oh and getting out for lots of lovely lunches to break up my day (always someone willing 😊)

Take care lovely

SJ X

[Froggie0208 in reply to jelliebean9]

Hi Jelliebean9

I’m so glad you are recovering really well hunny. I did go into town today got my nails done and had lunch it done me good and I had a long walk, I’m recovering really well myself not had the problems you had at first after your op bless you. Maybe tonight will be a better sleep as I have been more busy today, I try and get involved in running of Guest house, taking bookings, chatting to guests and doing paperwork my husband said I’m trying to do too much too early, I’m not a person to sit around and be pampered lol 😂

You take care hunny xxxx

Sylvie 😘

[jerry12953 in reply to jelliebean9]

nature cure.....fantastic.

[Ianc2]

Get yourself a V shaped pillow and make yourself a little nest to get comfortable in. You will need to be in complete control of your bed for the next 6 weeks to allow your body to get on with its repairs. Keep taking your painkillers. If your sternum keeps on clicking have a chat with people who did your operation?