Coping with Covid stress after a Congenital Heart Condition

[JoshKing]

Hi there,

I'm 27, and had open-heart surgery for an atrial septal defect three years ago. I've been largely fine during this whole pandemic, but my housemate has been frequently breaking lockdown, which has been causing me some anxiety and sleepless nights.

I don't know what my risk factor is, having already had the surgery, but my main issue is the sleepless nights caused by memories of being in hospital and time spent attached to machinery in HDU, as well as the recovery period in general, which was quite traumatic and problematic.

The thought of being part of someone else's reason for being seriously ill in hospital, through spreading the virus, is also causing me a lot of anxiety.

So I suppose I'm just looking for some advice on coping with these flashbacks and memories from people who might have gone through the same.

Best,

Josh

[Smarticus]

Since no one else has responded, you are stuck with me... flashbacks, I had lots after surgery, I swear I could hear them talking in the operating theatre! its a traumatic thing that you have gone through both mentaly a physically, you need to be kind to yourself. I dont know if they ever stop but it does get easier over time, just be greatfull that you are still here and the amazinng work of our health service, 100 years ago you would have been brown bread!

Your flatmate is entitiled to do whatever she? wants to do, you need to look after yourself at the moment especially in these times. You cant control other people but you can control your own thoughts and actions. sorry, I didnt understand your third paragraph, but whatever it is you have the chance to live your life to the full, smile

[Saltwaterman]

Hi Josh, sorry to hear about your worries, this whole situation certainly is a game changer! In order to bring an appropriate or proportional response to your current risk level it would be good to talk to your GP, Heart Nurse or Cardiologist and build a clearer picture of where you stand. Be kind to yourself about the flashbacks etc as you still need to process the large impact it has had on how you live your life. Once you've found out more, maybe have a talk with your flatmate so they can be more considerate of your risk to Covid and possibly even understand the risk it has for everyone regardless of health. As a parent of two boys in their 30's, I do know I would shelter them at home if possible, even at this late stage. So good luck and fingers crossed for you 🤞🤙

[Saltwaterman]

Hi Josh, sorry to hear about your worries, this whole situation certainly is a game changer! In order to bring an appropriate or proportional response to your current risk level it would be good to talk to your GP, Heart Nurse or Cardiologist and build a clearer picture of where you stand. Be kind to yourself about the flashbacks etc as you still need to process the large impact it has had on how you live your life. Once you've found out more, maybe have a talk with your flatmate so they can be more considerate of your risk to Covid and possibly even understand the risk it has for everyone regardless of health. As a parent of two boys in their 30's, I do know I would shelter them at home if possible, even at this late stage. So good luck and fingers crossed for you 🤞🤙

[Bertie23]

Hi Josh, I had OHS 10 months ago to repair my ASD. I’m still ‘recovering’ and struggle to sleep too.

I didn’t know whether I was at risk but was fortunate to have my planned consultation last month and my consultant said that I’m not at risk but obviously to be sensible and follow the guidance. I don’t have any other underlying issues, not sure whether that’s the same for you. If you still have access to your consultant or cardiac nurse I’d ask them to clarify your situation,

I worked from home until I had my consult but am now back in the office. If anyone comes too close I tell them to step back! I also get anxiety and take B12 tablets which seem to help.

[Amy615]

Hi josh...

I saw ur post nw as i was also searching for advice frm similar ppl...i jst had a non invasive asd closure and wanted some advice on the after effects of it..mentally of course im troubled..the sudden diagnosis..trauma n pain...n all discomfort..n on top of that..the covid fear..well ..if u hv no ther ailments..den i guess we r at risk but by taking precautions...take care

[Lyndaloo494]

Hi Josh, I had a 2nd open heart surgery within 24 hrs of the first due to a bleed. I honestly had no clue what was going on and was sure I was on my way to heaven. As they can't instantly knock you out, I had flashbacks of the experience going into theatre. When I did come round, I realised not a bad dream. But I didn't believe I was in a real hospital and they were real nurses. I thought I was some sort of experiment in a lab. Very bizarre. After a day or so I started to accept the situation and that it was all very real. All the pain and medication had made me a bit delerious but I've been fine and sleeping well. Was offered counselling but felt didn't need it. Times a great healer and amazing nursing staff in ICU helped. If you are not coping tho, ask for support as it's good to talk.

I try not to stress about Covid risks. It feels like nothing in comparison to what I've been through.