First thing I know my chiropodist tells me I have an irregular heart beat and should get it checked out. 3 months later, CT scans etc. and an angiogram a few days ago at Papworth and I've been told I require a triple heart bypass operation. Going to Glenfield Leicester as a shorter waiting list I was told.
I'm 64 male and otherwise fit and healthy, not overweight, non-smoker, eat a well balance diet.
Very scary.
What should I expect, or is it best I don't know.
Hello 
First do not go on Google
I had 3 heart attacks which resulted in a triple bypass
I am a complete nervous wreck by nature and even the Doctors wondered how I was going to cope never mind me wondering how I would manage it but I did and if I can anyone can and so will you
I have to say it was nothing like I imagined and I actually did not find it to bad at all considering what I had done which is saying something coming from me
A couple of months before my op they had me have a dental check up and did a few tests at the Hospital on me to make sure I was ok to have the op done
Once you have been asked to have a dental check up and had these tests done they have a short sell by date and it is usually a matter of weeks before they have you in to have the op
As soon as you walk in there you somehow feel at ease as you can tell the Nurses care for heart patients all the time as well as the Doctors and you feel in safe hands and you are
The operation well you are asleep of course and when you wake up in ICU you feel a bit stunned as you are not sure why you are there that is the drugs they have you on and they make sure they have any pain under control
You are hooked up to a few machines so they can keep checking how things are going which is to be expected within a few days though you are usually back on the ward and as soon as they can they have you out that bed and moving
Pass the challenge of walking up and down stairs and it is not long after they send you home
Yes you have a little pain and yes it takes time to recover but people go on and say they have never felt as fit as they did after having the op
Think of this as they have caught there was a problem and there is something they can do about it we are the lucky ones
Of course it is scary but look how many of us on here have had it done and the prospects of not having it done is a lot more frightening
If I can do it honestly you can and as things progress posting and letting us know and with each stage we can share our experiences with you
Let us know how you get on x
Thank you so much for taking the time to reply. I must admit I had a little weep for the first time for some reason. Maybe just the thought that I can make it out the other side.
Hello
I had more than a little weep it comes as a shock and for me I had all sorts of emotions including been angry with the thought why me and even angry with my body as I felt it had let me down
You can and you will make it through to the other side honestly we all get that fear but as I said if I can do it been the wreck I am anyone can including you
You are going to be in really safe hands they know what they are doing
This Community helped me so much before and after my op and we will help you just keep posting and talking as much as you need to we will be here for you x
I’m 10 days off from having a possible double CABG and found your experience really positive so thanks for sharing it.
I did I have to say spend too much time on google but this forum once found has really helped me get things into perspective and I’ve found it always to be positive so long may that continue.
It’s a vital tool for those either side of surgery and beyond.
Hello
Please keep us informed how you get on anything you want to ask and so on just come on and we will do our best
Honestly though I am a wreck my nature and if I am saying it is not that bad and did it you and everyone else waiting to have it done will do to
This Community and not Google got me through it and we will help you to if you need us
Good luck with your op and let us know how you get on x
Brilliant reply as ever, BeKind. You really are such an asset to this forum.
Hello
Thank you and I hope you are keeping well x
☺️ thank you. I’m good.
I’m hoping life is smooth for you and you are able to get out in the garden-weather is a bit hit and miss but at least not so stifling .
Hello
Nice to hear you are doing well
I have been going through a rough time but nothing new there I suppose
Yes the weather has been one extreme to another I could not go out when it was really hot this is a lot better x
Hi, so I have my first pre-op assessment at Glenfield next Thursday with a hope of the operation within a few weeks if I pass audition! I guess if he wants more tests done it may take longer.In the meantime my meds are giving me headaches. My doctor said it could be the Nicorandil but said I should persevere. Any techniques re pain relief welcome, Paracetamol not helping.
Hello
Glad to see you have kept your sense of humour I like that if you pass the audition well if I can pass it I am sure you will
Not sure what you can take because of the other meds you are on maybe ask your pharmacist
I used to get really bad migraines and would put a flannel in the freezer and then sit with it on my forehead did not take all the pain away but was nice and soothing
Let us know if you pass your audition x
I can definitely relate to your story, as many on here will also (I'm now 9 weeks post quadruple bypass).
In the early days, just coming to terms with the diagnosis and the way forward is enough to take in. I still think they had my results mixed up with someone else!?
They don't recommend this op lightly and the condition isn't going improve by doing nothing, so that's got to be a positive step forward to living better? Once I had this in my mind, my frame of mind was very positive and I could prep for the op (mentally and physically). Searching on this forum for 'bypass' and 'CABG' is a really good way to find the answers you might want and will surface loads of details and stories (if you haven't done so already); this helped me no end as I wanted to know as much as possible 🙂
My personal experience throughout the 'process' has been very good so far and I have no regrets of going through with it, though there's no use pretending that it's an easy ride for you or those around you at times. Wishing you well for your op 👍🏻👍🏻
Hello, here's our story. My boyfriend is 51, healthy, fit and never spent a day in hospital in his life. Always been active . He started with some mild angina symptoms, which he got checked out. A few tests later and during an angiogram was told he needed a heart bypass..totally unexpected and hit us like a sack of spuds. How could this be when his symptoms were so mild. A few days later he saw the surgeon and was booked in for surgery for about 3 weeks later . We chose not to Google about it, but instead I joined this forum and some other similar places to listen to people's experiences first hand. Everyone's experiences are very different, but a real comfort to listen to. We kept ourselves busy during those weeks and went ahead with a couple of planned things including a house move, a week away and a spot of decorating. We had no time to sit and dwell or think too deeply about the surgery, it was just there at the back of our minds whilst we kept busy, then suddenly operation day was here. We had decided to keep positive as much as possible and get our heads around the fact that he would be out of action for a while, whilst he recovered but a small price to pay under the circumstances. I walked to theatre with him & off he went, I thought he would be in a bit of a state, but in all honesty, he was cool as a cucumber because everyone at the hospital are so amazing at making you feel at ease and you know that you're in safe hands. A few hours later I got a call from the surgeon telling me everything went well and he's doing OK. Went to visit him that evening in ICU, I had prepared myself for this, but he was actually much better than expected, yes there are wires and tubes, but he was awake and talking. Following day when I arrived at the hospital, there he was sat in his chair having a cuppa. I was amazed at how well he looked and straight away the physios had him walking up and down the ward. 2 nights in ICU, then to a room in a ward. 5 days later we were on our way home. Here we are 3 weeks post surgery today and it's fair to say it has been nowhere near as bad as we were both expecting. He's tired and at times a bit uncomfortable, but he has not had too much pain and has been in good spirit. He's walking every day, short regular walks & all going well. He has been able to shower and dress himself since he came home and apart from helping him a little to dry off after a shower, he's able to do things himself.I was petrified at the thought of this surgery, and people on here were telling me the waiting is the worst part, and I honestly do think this is true.
I hope you can take some comfort from mine and other people's experiences on here and I wish you all the best with your surgery.
Get some front button up or zip up tops as this makes life easier in the early days, although having bought him a big pile of these he was back to his normal comfy Tshirts in no time.
A recliner chair is useful to help get comfy and for having a snooze.
And remember this....whilst the surgery is a big deal for you, the patient, for the medical professionals it's just a regular days work doing something they do day in & day out. This kept me feeling positive.
We are not far from you, we are West Midlands.
Take care.
Thank you, I'm so glad I discovered this forum. I'll give Google a miss. I had this vision of me in bed for 4 weeks, moving a bed downstairs etc. Makes sense they want you to move around asap. I will bring forward my retirement a bit earlier. It makes you focus on work life balance. In the meantime the footy season starts again today. Thanks 😊
Yes, I took my laptop to hospital and watched the live games there 👍
HiI had my double bypass in Glenfield and the surgeons, doctors and nurses were wonderful.
It was during the isolation period in 2020.
Good luck with your procedure.
Hi , its a scary time and you'll have all sort of scenario's going through your head , Its actually not as bad as you think it'll be i Had my Bypass in 2016 and have honestly had a new lease of life working at the gym doing everything i thought would've ended when i was told i was getting surgery . Yeh its tough for a bit physically but get active as soon as you can and you'll be fine . All the best for the op and leave an update once you've had it . Alan
I had a quintuple bypass 5 years ago and here I am still alive and kicking. Yes, it's going involve some pain and discomfort. Nothing will be easy for a while. But the things I learned were: do as they tell you, never turn down pain relief and take up the option of cardiac rehab, if they offer it. These operations are run of the mill to these surgeons. You will be fine.
Giant68
I had a triple bypass seven weeks ago.
I was getting a bit breathless when walking up hills and after the same tests that you've had I was told I couldn't have stents, I needed an operation.
Honestly, I was terrified.
I've never had an operation before - let alone a big one - and I wondered if I might not make it. I was also concerned about post operative pain. Would I cope?
Unlike Google, my cardiologist was reassuring. 'We do this all the time so if anything untoward does happen we have plans in place and we'll deal with it. Honestly, it's more risky driving to the hospital than having the bypass! It will give you a much improved quality of life and you'll live longer, too. What's not to like? '
A few weeks later I booked in at the hospital and I started to relax a bit. The nurses and doctors clearly treated a bypass operation as though they were cutting toenails, they answered my questions honestly, told me it was ok to worry but they would look after me.
Afterward the operation I had a day in ICU followed by five days on a higher observation ward then I was sent home.
At no point was I in real pain. Just uncomfortable. There will be wires and drains sticking out of your body for a couple of days and it's hard to find a comfortable position to rest in. But I never needed more than a couple of paracetamol.
The physios will get you up and walking while you're in the ward and before you know it, you'll be on your way home.
I'm not going to lie to you - it's a big operation. But afterwards you'll wonder what you were worrying about and maybe giving reassuring advice to other people who are worried, like you are now.
One thing I will warn you about - the emotional impact of the operation. For a week or two after I got home I burst into tears regularly and sometimes for no obvious reason. It's a bit disconcerting for people who are looking after you but it's entirely normal. If it happen to you, don't worry, it will pass.
** Very important - don't Google anything. Ask your GP or cardiologist or the nurses on this site instead.
Keep us updated!
Thanks, I feel reassured with everyone's comments. Just waiting for a date now. Referral only just sent to Glenfield today. Consultant thought 4 to 6 weeks, not sure.
as a woman with heart disease I think you are fortunate indeed. The interventional guy who discovered my tripple vessel disease shouted round the Cath lab at Brompton I should be a tripple bypass but placed stents / then 10 years of every experimental LDL busting drugs Including PCSK9 inhibibiters and Incliseran,all made me very unwell sooner or later - 4 weeks ago I had a massive MI……I am exceptionally fit yogi cyclist swimmer. Currently my GP has requested I see a woman thoracic surgeon and despite writing to my cardiologist he has not replied!!!!
First of all Lincsman - a very big welcome to the forum you really didn't expect to be joining! 🫨 You'll find a lot of very knowledgeable and friendly people here who are always more than happy to help, support and reassure with any questions or worries you might have.
I'm a 64 yr-old female and also thought I was fit & healthy two & a half years ago. My own journey started with a totally unexpected NStemi heart attack in January 2022 after which I was admitted to hospital before having a triple bypass five weeks later at the end of February.
We're all individuals, and each of us has a very different experience, but overall the outcome is usually extremely positive. I was taken to ICU immediately after the op around 9pm and was sitting beside the bed next morning with a bit of help into the chair. They'll encourage you to sit up and move as soon as possible afterwards to get everything moving again. You'll have a lot of wires and drains, which look a bit scary, but they're not painful, just really awkward! I stayed in ICU for two days, then back to the ward and home after 4/5 days. The only painkiller I needed to use afterwards was paracetamol - although I did take the full dose of 8 tablets over the course of a day in the week after the op and gradually cut it down over the course of the next few weeks.
I live alone, but my brother popped in every morning for a week or so to check if I needed anything. He did want me to come and stay with them when I got home, but I genuinely felt fine and the joy of getting to sleep in my own bed again and have home cooked food, after five weeks in hospital was unsurpassed 😂. You'll probably find your family are more worried about you than you are yourself!
For us, as individuals, it is a big op, but for the wonderful surgeons and their teams who take care of us it really is a standard procedure these days. As the surgeon who looked after me said when I thanked him "there's no need for thanks, it's just a bit of plumbing"!😆 But I'll be forever grateful to them and their skill.
At the six-week post op assessment I was told I could drive again and went back to work 3/4 months afterwards on a part-time phased return - four half days per week for a month - and now, two years later continue to work part-time purely through choice, two half days and two full days per week.
Just do everything they tell you to do and follow their advice and you'll end up like me, two & a half years later feeling much fitter, healthier and happier than I did in the couple of years leading up to the heart attack. I'd been putting the tiredness I'd been feeling down to normal ageing.
If you have time please keep in touch as we'll all have lots of tips as you get closer to the op re non-stingy shower gel, cushions, sleeping positions and what you'll need in hospital etc!🤣It's easy for any of us to say try not to worry but you're human, so you will - but I'm sure you'll be absolutely fine. Carol😊
Thank you, I don't feel so scared now. Although I have just received my referral letter from my consultant to the surgery team in Leicester. Didn't understand much of it, but words like 'significant' and 'extensive' sounded like I need a heart transplant rather than a bypass! Maybe they will see me sooner?
Jeepers - that does sound scary Lincsman, but they're just words. If our problems weren't 'significant' then we wouldn't need the op! I😊 think these truly life-saving surgeons & doctors forget sometimes that they're speaking to us mere mortals who might tend to panic just a bit when we read them or hear them!😆
At my six week post-op assessment, the Ricky, the lovely doctor who assisted at my op, quite literally punched the air and shouted "YES - PERFECT!" when he looked at the x-ray of my well-healed sternum. Later in the meeting he also casually mentioned that it might be wise to be a wee bit more careful (they hadn't been able to use my mammary artery as it was too damaged and all three grafts used were veins harvested from my leg). The only words that stuck in my head after such a truly positive meeting were "more careful"!🫨.😂 I realised shortly afterwards that he only meant I shouldn't be stuffing my face with cream buns & sitting on my behind all day, but it was scary to hear at the time!🤣
Just a thought, you'll probably find sleeping a bit awkward when you get home until your sternum's healed. I've always been a side sleeper, but found putting a pillow down each side of me in bed when I got home stopped me rolling over in the middle of the night for a couple of weeks.
It might be an idea to give Glenfield Leicester a ring to check out if they can give you any indication of the waiting times. I honestly believe the waiting pre-op is almost as nerve-wracking as the thought of the op itself! Carol
Thanks Carol, I think I am over the initial shock of reading the referral. I'll give Glenfield a ring next week to check I'm on their books and to get an appreciation of timescale. Thanks for the advice re. sleeping. I guess a sneeze or coughing is going to hurt. There I am worrying again. Time to take Charlie out for a walk, our springer spaniel.
Good idea, it'd be good for you to get a rough idea of the time-scale - you could also ask to be put on the cancellation list too if you think it might help. The gently-hug- a -cushion or a rolled-up towel method definitely works for sneezing and coughing😊. It doesn't really hurt as such, I just felt as if I was afraid of breaking something I think. The first thing I did on waking from the op was be sick - that hurt! - but it was only because of the effect of the anesthetic on my system as I can't take any morphine or codeine derivatives. It definitely didn't happen to anyone else I was talking with in ICU.
Hope you enjoyed your walk with Charlie. The last time I was speaking to a cardiologist he told me he'd like to be able to write a prescription for a rescue dog for anyone with heart issues. He has a big rescue Boxer himself which really helps to keep him fit. He said no matter what time he gets home from work, or how tired he is, he knows he still has to take big Sam for walkies!😆 I'd love another dog companion but with living alone and still working it just wouldn't be fair - maybe something to look forward to when I fully retire.
Im now three years after my triple 'cabbage' and can do more than I could for several years prior to it. Its a life changer of an op.
Thanks tony
Thanks Tony, great to hear. John
had mine 4 years ago and it’s like it never happened. Took me a few months to get back to normal but it gets easier day by day.
Thanks gibbo, good to hear. I've been lacking energy levels for a few years. It was diagnosed as fibromyalgia. Fingers crossed I'll feel like a new man...
Before my triple when I went cycling I had to keep stopping just to get my breath back. Now I never need to stop.
Hi Lincsman1,
I'm one of the rarities. I was actually invited to have a triple bypass back in 2017, something which probably doesn't happen any more. After a heart attack and two stents in my right coronary artery, I was told I needed more intervention and was referred to Papworth. After undergoing tests I was told I could have more stents in my other arteries, but the recommendation was a triple bypass. I elected to go with the recommendation and had the op the following year.
Like yourself, I was fairly fit, walked hills in Scotland, didn't drink much and had never smoked, but the combination of high blood pressure, work stress and a genetic tendency to have blood clots had done its deed. None of us are exempt. I chose the best option on offer and have never regretted it. My only sadness is that several friends have not been as well served by the NHS as I have and are no longer with us.
There's a lot of experience here on this forum. Most would encourage you to have the op and I am certainly among that number. Keep positive, both leading up to the op and after it. It will knock you down, but you will slowly stand up again a fitter person.
With my very best wishes,
Gerald
P. S. I'm still climbing Munros in Scotland aged 72.....
Thanks Gerald, very good to hear I'm one of the lucky ones. I owe my chiropodist one you picked up my irregular heart beat. Being positive...bring it on!
Reference has been made by others to the mental aspect of having the op. It is really important to keep positive as there will be upsets along the way. For example, I wasn't prepared for not being able to climb the road up to my house. Not a steep slope, but I couldn't manage it for the first week after coming out of hospital. I could have got upset, but knew it wouldn't last for long. By 8 weeks post op I walked 10 miles non-stop. Bit by bit I had worked at it. I was allowed to drive at 13 weeks and to put on a backpack... went out to some local hills and slowly worked my way back to where I was pre-op. At 6 months post op I was back on the Scottish hills. It takes time, but it's worth it. 😀
You will be feeling unlucky but actually you are really lucky to have discovered this before any issues arose and to be being treated swiftly.
I’m glad you found this forum for the reassurance and support that you can find here.
Very best wishes and please let us know how you get on.
Thank you Jeremiah, bring it on then!
Best of luck mate! This is the most shocking part (same as me), you go into hospital thinking somethings wrong with you, only to come back being told you need a major operation!However in my case, my Mrs had a triple bypass and I have unpleasant memories of it, like several weeks of after care etc. Not so bad if you have a loved one who will care for you.
My self, I had a choice to go for stents, this I went for as I am a carer plus my after care was not there-the Mrs passed away recently. Being on my own with dependants is quite scarry.
So I opted for stents option. A quicker, return back home with less after care requirements. In different circumstances I would have prefered a triple bypass.
Jedi14 I'm very sorry to hear about your wife. Such a loss is difficult enough, but as a carer with health concerns of your own it must be very difficult and worrying. I think unless someone has been a carer themselves they can't imagine how hard it is. I am a full time carer and split up with my partner nearly a year ago and was diagnosed with coronary artery and valve disease shortly afterward. I already struggle to look after my 99 year old father and cannot afford to give up my working from home paid job, so the thought of going in for surgery and recovering afterwards fills me worry and it feels like an insurmountable problem. You have my greatest sympathy, on your loss and on the difficult situation you are in. Take care, and try to look after yourself as best you can.🤗
Don't worry about it. Let it come and go. No use worrying. I had a quadruple and a replacement heart valve. Nov'21. Like you I didn't feel unwell. I had a dizzy spell the Wednesday before Easter weekend'21. Had all the test, had the op in the November.
Well done that Chiropodist who was on the ball!
Hi Linncsman1, plenty of us around that have had this “common” procedure 🤦🏼🤣.. I had Nstemi heart attack last July and was very fortunate that my wife called 111 as I thought I had painful trapped wind! The paramedics insisted that I should go to hospital for a troponin blood test , but kept reiterating that they couldn’t make me , to confirm if I had a heart attack. So glad I went ! First blood test was insignificant at 74 and second test came back at 402 confirming a heart attack! I had angiogram next day that showed 3 blockages and stenting not possible. I ended up with quadruple bypass in St Thomas’s London. I was 61 and very fit , a year later I’m doing really well. The early days were a bit of a drag , glad I had help around me , my wife helped so much , getting up out of bed and off the settee was sometimes a struggle, trying not to make my sternum click. Sitting in a chair was no problem . Walking was my goal post discharge from hospital , plus getting on the rehab program at local hospital. I made slight changes to my diet , mainly Mediterranean, good oils , lean meat , fish , veg , nuts. Cut out Ultra processed foods, making great use out of our bread mako, pitas and homemade loaves for no sugar and much less salt ! So great full for my rebirth . I balled my eyes out when I was on my own the first night in hospital after my family had gone home . How could it have happened to me , a lifetime of sports and training , so fit! The mental side does take a bit of time to heal , I’m sure I had a touch of PTSD for a few months , the scars fade but are still a constant reminder. The surgeons were really blasé about the procedure and full of confidence , they will consider you young and fit “ we do thousands of these procedures , you’re young , fit and strong not our normal client” My consultant said “ it’s just some seeing and plumbing, the hardest work will be done by our anaesthetist “ 🤣🤣.
You’re an assessed case , not an emergency so that’s even better 👍🏻.
Your meds might need tweaking post procedure , don’t be afraid to question and ask things if your pharmacist, GP surgery ( if you can get an appointment 🤦🏼) and make use of the BHF on line nurses for a chat , they are fantastic and can give immediate advice , a great relief on a few occasions for me .
I was back riding my motorbike after 3 months , running 5k after about 6 months , back to yoga classes and working round our farms in
Good morning,
Like yourself and nearly all the comments it truly is a life saver.
I also had no terrible symptoms (an achy left arm). 8st, fit and a non-smoker. More scared of the angiogram and the thought of tubes going down my throat and up at the nether regions but of course didn’t feel a thing.
Just reached my 6 year anniversary and thankful for the bonus of extra time with my wonderful family and friends.
Good luck but you will be fine, I still marvel at the expertise of our surgeons.
Hello,Wow!! What a shock you must have got!? I'm guessing you have had no symptoms of any heart related issues ?
I had a double cabg 19 months ago in Scotland. My situation was very different to you in that my condition is genetic . I've had 3 heart attacks and 2 failed stents, resulting in a double cabg as arteries were collapsed.
Depending on the waiting list and what priority the have you as you may wait a while or be seen quite quickly. I was kept in hospital for 15 days as I kept having angina attacks.
I'm sure it will already have been explained that this is a major operation. They will probably have you in before hand for all the blood work, lung capacity tests, and all other pre op tests. You will likely have a vein harvested from each leg ( whilst in theatre) as these are used to mimic arteries. They use one of your mammary arteries. also. The operation itself can last from 6 hours or more. Normally the breathing tube is removed before you go into ICU. I stayed 2 days in ICU and one day in HDU, then 2 days in the ward, then home. Your chest area will be very stiff and tight and sore for a while, and it is really important to be so careful not to do too much!! Watch how you move too!! Take your time. It will take a wee while before you get some kind of flexibility back in your chest area. You might not have much of an appetite at the start either, but it soon comes back. Sleeping can be difficult, unless you sleep on your back!! I slept in a recliner chair for a few months as I found it very difficult getting in to bed then getting comfortable as I am a side sleeper. The emotional recovery can be difficult. Lots of low moods, tears,black thoughts and bad dreams, but this is very common. I will be forever grateful that I had this operation as it has given me a second chance at life. I wish you all the luck in the world. Please keep us informed of your progress. Take care. X
Just want to add a slightly different take from most on here. For most people the operation is pretty straightforward and the recovery quick. I was one of the more unlucky ones in that a had a string of complications and recovery was slower with ups and downs. I had a quadruple over a year ago at the age of 52. I was very fit and it came out of the blue. My point is to say- if recovery is not what most are telling you it will be- don’t worry! I worried a lot because I was not experiencing what everyone told me I would. It was fine in the end but my recovery was much longer than most. Patience and acceptance are key. I had mine over a year ago and feel great. Gym 5 times a week, no alcohol (my choice rather than a directive) and eating very well. A couple of practical points. I bought a wedge to sleep on which really helped sleeping on my back. Take the offer of cardiac rehab if you get it. Seriously consider some mental health help if it is offered. Further down the road you might realise the trauma even when you don’t at the time! And as for the immediate post op period- you are up to the eyeballs on drugs so not properly aware of what is going on!
It’s an experience you’ll never forget and I think you’ll find hugely positive (in the end). Good luck!
Thanks, I'm willing to take on all the help I can get. I think it's partly stress that got me into this mess. Trying a bit of meditation. My wife's the Yoga expert.
I’m 7 weeks into my recovery period after triple bypass …the worst is waiting for the op date then you will feel nervous on the day …once the anaesthetist has done his work the next thing you’ll know you’re waking up in ICU …you may have a few ups and downs while recovering but stay positive definitely stay positive it will help with your recovery good luck with everything
Thanks, appreciated.
Thank you for posting this.
2 weeks ago today I had a minor heart attack, the angiogram revealed stents were not the solution and I needed a double bypass, not so minor after all.
Having being reasonable fit walking the dog for 45-60 mins a day, don’t drink or smoke but the stress of losing my Mum meant I’d eat whatever was to hand for the last 2 years.
I had a triple bypass 10 days ago, was discharged from hospital 4 days ago with tramodol and paracetamol, unfortunately I have other health problems. Any way, I suppose I was lucky I didn’t have too much time to think about the op, I had no complications, I’m still in painkillers which I’m reducing, the emotional side has hit me, the recovery has started, I’m walking a bit, up and down stairs during the day, eating much better and more healthy. I really hope you have a successful op and the recovery will be fine. Reading everyone else comments has given me hope and some reassurance.
Well done Poppy-Pops and thanks for sharing and your good wishes. Get well soon. God gave us 2 of everything but only one heart, so no wonder it has to work so hard. Actually I only have 1 nose 👃 😅
I was similar situation, 63 non smoker, exercised, ate well, not overweight, just unlucky genetics. Felt unwell just before Xmas admitted to hospital with an NSTEMI. Had an angiogram and was told I needed a triple bypass. Transferred to Glenfield where I was under Mr Zakkar and Nathan Tyson. To say they’re rockstars is a huge understatement. Mr Zakkar started to explain the procedure to me and I just told him he was the professional, put me under I don’t need to know what’s going on. He is such a calm guy who oozes that X factor I literally trusted putting my life in his hands. Anyway they put me to sleep and I came round in ICU a few hours later. Although when you wake it looks scary it’s looks worse than it actually is. The care you receive on ICU is second to none. I was in 48 hours as my potassium dropped but it was soon sorted out then I was back on the ward. Again the staff are super professional and you’re looked after like royalty. Mr Zakkar came and saw me in recovery and said the operation was 100% success. If I’d not had the op I wouldn’t have lasted 12 months, in fact since my bypass I’ve lost 3 friends friends from school to Heart Attacks so I deem myself very lucky. I’m now +8 months and have so much more energy (I put my tiredness down to getting old) and looking forward to many more years of creating memories. It’s not a bed of roses recovery but certainly nowhere as bad as you imagine. I’ve now seen a bypass operation on YouTube and the work these guys do is unbelievable but wait till after before you check it out. It is a scary time for you at the moment but believe me it is definitely worth the end result. Say Hi to Nathon for me and special shout out to Nurses Tan and Lovely who both helped me tremendously. Remember these guys have done this procedure 1000s of times so you’re in great hands. You’re also made of tougher stuff than you know so you’ve got this. You’ll appreciate the far higher quality of life after and you’ll be left with some really cool scars. ❤️
Hi, I'll try and be brief and this is about my recent experience, it's different for each person. I'm 67.Whilst lying on angiogram table in March the cardiologist leant across and asked if I had a preference for the Brompton or Southampton for CABG as he couldn't stent me, I chose Southampton simply because it was easier to get too. Sent home with a range of new meds to take whilst waiting.Saw surgeon in April for planned surgery in May, needless to say, it was delayed but still very prompt compared to some on here.
Admitted early June. First scheduled date came and went but was kept in hospital. On Tuesday morning of revised surgery date, wheeled to anaesthesia full of pre-med and apart from remembering there were three anaesthetists I remember nothing of the next 24 hrs, but I know I had a transfusion to prep my blood for the bypass machine as it was full of the aspirin I was kept on. I had CABG x4 surgery and off to CICU for a short stay then to CHDU. Sprang a leak and back to surgery around midnight for an additional stitch or two and then to CICU again. I was kept sedated until morning.
Woken around 7am Wednesday. When fully awake asked if I wanted to sit in a chair or stay in bed for a while. Opted for the chair as it looked more comfortable than the bed!
Breakfast at 8:30am and a walk around CICU (with minders) later that morning.
Wife and friend popped in at 4pm for an hour and was surprised at how well I looked.
Thursday morning went for another walk around CICU and then moved to a cardiac ward just before lunchtime.
Packed my suitcase Friday and left it on my bed all day as a hint - it didn't work! Went for a long walk with a physio who said, 'if there's any delays in your discharge, it's not us, I'm going to go and sign you off.'
Left suitcase packed on my bed again the following day but this time it worked. Discharged late Saturday afternoon.
Gentle walks each day building up to 12,000 steps after 2 weeks. Started cardiac rehab after 7 weeks. Now approaching 10 weeks post surgery.
Is immediate post surgery uncomfortable, yes. I felt quite battered and bruised for a 3 or 4 weeks but my chest scar healed quickly as did the harvest site in my right leg. Still get chest twinges but if it hurts I just stop doing whatever it is I'm doing.
It is not as bad as you are imagining.
Good luck and best wishes for an early recovery.
I think everyone has given such good advice and I hope you're reassured 🙂
My triple bypass came out of the blue as well, I was expecting a stent at most when I went in for my angiogram, bit of a shock when I was told I needed a triple bypass due to severe stenosis. Especially as I had no warning and was swimming 5K a week. Let's face it, 'severe' is not a word you want to see on your medical notes!
10 weeks ago today and there have been ups and downs emotionally and physically but I am positive about the future. One thing I would say is that no two people's experience is the same. By all means, take what we have said as guidelines, but it's not set in stone. Your journey may have slightly different turns in it, so don't panic if something happens you weren't expecting, just ask your medical professionals or BHF or post on here.
In fact, the mental and emotional sides can be the most challenging bit of the recovery. It sounds like you have got into a mindset where the very best thing is happening by having the CABG which is the best place you can be.
I am the main (sole) carer for my disabled wife but we have had support from family, friends and neighbours through a WhatsApp group we set up, where I can let people know what's happening and ask for help for things I can't yet do. It's been such a help I can't say enough good things about it 😀
It's been a salutary lesson for me to learn to ask for help when I couldn't do something or needed a lift, something up to now I haven't tended to do! However, the days when I was able to load and run the dishwasher or do some light gardening safely by myself seem like monumental achievements 😆 It really is important not to over-reach and using the guidelines you will be given for movement and lifting is a must.
I was talking with my wife about the last few months, and I realised that, despite knowing what I know, I didn't really feel that I had had such a serious operation, the process had been so straightforward. The only pain I have really had is from the vein harvest site where they took a vein from my leg to use in the bypass which has now much reduced. I have only been on regular paracetamol for the entire process. All the best!
Thanks cabg..my wife is having a fight with cancer at the moment but is so brave and positive and I know that is helping her through it all. I'm normally a bit of a pessimist, so I need to build on my pma! I also think I need a new phone with a longer battery life...I may need it. Cheers
Hey LincsmanIt's not ideal by any stretch having concerns about a partner when you're going through something like this yourself as I know too well. But the best thing I can say is to keep talking to each other and try not to keep things to yourself for fear of worrying each other. There are unfortunately new things you will find you have in common and other things you will need to explain.
I may be telling you something you already know and if so please forgive me. I wish you both the very best in your ongoing journeys.
Paul
Hi,
I was in same position nearly two years ago : my watch said I had an abnormal heart beat and I was sent for tests and four months later had an angiogram and told I needed a triple bypass. I had type 2 diabetes, sleep apnoea, raised blood pressure and cholesterol prior to this but, apart from diabetes medication, was not taking anything else, which in retrospect may have been a mistake.
Prior to the angiogram had no real symptoms and was fit and no noticeable symptoms. I had been told it would be done in 12 weeks, but after12 weeks had elapsed I contacted them and the referral hadn’t even been typed up. Saw surgeon after four and a half months had elapsed and was told there was a further 5 month waiting list ( Welsh NHS)
Following the angiogram I developed chest pains and decided I did not want to wait and potentially have a cardiac arrest and the likely damage to my heart and paid for a private operation. It was galling to have to do this, as I have worked and paid taxes all my life, but as I think good health is the most important attribute of a good quality life , I bit the bullet and had the operation three weeks later.
I recovered very quickly after the op ( was walking within two hours of coming around.) i now take various meds which have reduced blood pressure and cholesterol.
The prospect of the op and the technical details were very anxiety provoking but, apart from the inconvenience of not stressing the sternum post op, it was an ok experience.
It is a tried and tested procedure with a very low fatality rate and will give you a longer and healthier life.
I was a priority admission after an echo. 5 days later I had two stents at Papworth.
4 days after that another echo and my discharge was cancelled, I then spent 3 weeks before undergoing AVR and a single CABG. Discharged 6 days later. As part of my work up I was asked about any dental issues, I go regularly anyway.
14 months on and I’m as fit as a fiddle, do a gym class every week and, from 3 months post op, a parkrun (5k) every Saturday. Gym class is run by one of the cardio rehab team and I’ve got no restrictions on how hard I can work. I’m 72 in three weeks time.
Although I wasn’t really overweight I’ve lost 10kg since my operation and now sport a BMI around 24.5.
Hi all, I feel so grateful to Lincsman1 and everyone who's responded to his opening post with such incredibly useful and reassuring information.
I'm due to have a triple bypass in 6 - 8 weeks (priority 2) at Kings College Hospital, London.
I'm 73, slim, fit and active, vegetarian for 41 years, with none of the common risk factors and no known history of heart disease in the family. No obvious symptoms either. "Surreal" is the word I keep using to describe how this all feels, though readily accepting the reality of my diagnosis - which came via a "Targeted Lung Scan" revealing mild emphysema and heart irregularities.
I'm very optimistic by nature and now feel as though all of my pre-op questions have been answered in this single thread! Thank you all once more. 🙏🏿
So happy they caught this before you had any kind of event. It was meant to be found and you’ll be absolutely fine. It’s 2024 and the docs out there really know what they’re doing. . My father went through a triple bypass and lived for 35 years. Yes it is scary but you’re a young man and are stronger and fitter than many that go through this operation without issues. You’ll be chatting with us through your recovery and we’ll be here for you every step of the way 👍
Your comments post-op have been so positive and inspiring that it has been so reassuring to others who are afraid anything to do with injection, operations and sight of blood. Thanks so much for taking the time and efforts of writing this note.
Hello, have you had a date for your surgery yet? my husband is currently awaiting a CABG at Glenfield and is going out of his mind waiting. Just looking for experiences of time frames for people. i know everyone is different. He is 38, with Severe triple artery disease. thanks
Triple heart bypass
heart bypass
Heart Bypass Surgery 
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Triple Bypass 2 years on.
