Fluid in lungs after cabg, heart bypass

[SRDS]

Dear All

So we went for my husband's first post op appointment today. There was fluid in his lungs post operation., which was 5.5 weeks ago. He took a diuretic medication as per the doctor's prescription. Today, from the x Ray, the Dr saw that the fluid is still there. He said that he is not worried about it and ordered an echo heart scan to be on the safe side and he changed to a stronger diuretic medication, medication to get rid of the fluid. Husband is worried whether this is to do with how successful or not the surgery was.

Anyone had a similar experience? Thanks in advance.

Shaivi

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

I don't think he needs to worry about it as the cardiac team seem on top of it. After my bypass I developed an electrolyte imbalance and gained 9kg of fluid. This together with anemia (transfusion needed) delayed my discharge by the days.

One thought is hashe been doing his breathing exercises regularly post op. The lungs take a real hammering during bypass surgery and the breathing exercises are critically important.

[SRDS in reply to MichaelJH]

Thanks MichaelJH. He needs to do more of the breathing exercises. He does walk quite a bit. Thamk you

[Chappychap]

It's really common. The main thing is for your husband to really work hard at the breathing and walking exercises he was given when he left hospital. These aren't easy, and especially in the early days can feel pretty demanding. But effort now will yield real dividends later on.

Good luck!

[SRDS in reply to Chappychap]

Thanks Chappychap. It is true. The coughing exercises are especially tricky. But yes when needs to do them nonetheless

[Hidden]

Dear SRDS

Hello to you, yes it is common so I was told.

He must keep up his breathing exercises as that will help shift any mucus still there.

I ballooned with water retention after the operation and that to was on my chest and legs. Water tablets were issued and that seems to have sorted the problem.

I was told to weigh myself everyday and keep a record for the Heart Nurse to see.

Hubby is just on another step nearer to becoming better and as always you are just a step behind him pushing (well done)

You know that the pair of you are in my thoughts.

[SRDS in reply to Hidden]

Thanks for being so encouraging Blue1958. Really appreciate it. The weighing idea is good. Will apply that

[MountainGoat52]

Fluid on the lungs is to be expected after a bypass operation. A couple of days after the operation my lungs filled with fluid with my oxygen dropping to 73% which was not pleasant. I was given Furosemide, but that made me very unwell as both thiazide and loop diuretics strip out my potassium, so I had to have Amiloride (a potassium sparing diuretic) intravenously and was back feeling well again within hours. So don't dispair, I'm sure that your husband's situation will be resolved soon.

[SRDS in reply to MountainGoat52]

Thanks GWP1952. I hope so.