Post aortic valve. So dizzy

[Flymetothebeach]

Six eeeks posted aortic valve replacement. Thought I was doing well. Walking an hour a day. But I’ve had two very dizzy turns in the last two days. Feel awful. Mood so low. Anyone been here? They stopped amilodopin because it made me feel sick. BP seems normal. Sorry to ask. Feel so alone.

[Blackcatsooty]

Might you be overdoing things ? Given that you are recommended to lift nothing more than a half filled kettle and not raise your arms overhead, you should ideally been doing very little for the first six weeks. And is someone caring for you ? Is your walk a gentle walk, chatting as you go ? Hopefully the staff at your hospital ring you and they would set you on the right track.

Best wishes

[Flymetothebeach in reply to Blackcatsooty]

I don’t get any advice. Because it was valve replacement I don’t qualify for rehab. I guess I might be doing too much. Thanks.

[ChrisH84]

I had valve replacement in June and only just in the last 3 weeks have I been walking for an hour regularly. I think you are overdoing things, the initial 6 weeks should be taken very slowly and carefully.

Also, the next 6 weeks you need to build it up slowly, whilst you feel fine you need to give your body time to recovery from the surgery and get used to everything.

Not sure why you don't get any rehab, as I have had cardiac rehab.

Maybe best to reach out to the surgical team that performed the replacement and your GP to get some advice and support about you specifically.

[Flymetothebeach in reply to ChrisH84]

That is so helpful. I feel ok and then crash. My local hospital said they have stopped rehab for AVR. So sad and frustrating. I need support. Trying to see if I could pay someone

[ChrisH84 in reply to Flymetothebeach]

If that is the case then you are definitely pushing yourself too hard, you need to calm down and take time to do things. It takes 6-8 weeks for your sternum to knit back together but you also have the wound to heal. You should gradually increase your exercise levels and keep within limits.

The doctors should have advised a BPM that they don't want you to exceed initially.

When I did some simple walking whilst I felt could walk more I stopped after say 15-20 mins so that I had some energy and rested for a little while.

I really think you need to speak to a professional as obviously different medications can result in things.

Did they not provide you with a support book before or after surgery detailing information and contact details. I cant see how they can stop rehab as its crucial to ensure the surgery was a success.

If they don't then speak with your GP and don't take no for an answer, as need to have some guidance to ensure you are recovering properly.

[Flymetothebeach]

Thank you. I will go back and push for help.

[ChrisH84 in reply to Flymetothebeach]

Good luck..

It will get better. I am 17 weeks post surgery and feeling good and getting back to normality slowly.