Heart valve replacement is a major operation, and the healing process takes time for the body. The length of time typically varies depending on one’s condition prior to replacement and the kind of surgery done (open or minimally invasive). Dr. Sujay Shad, a renowned heart surgery specialist in Delhi, says that following necessary precautions following the surgery is equally crucial for a person to heal properly. Read this blog to learn every crucial detail one should know about what to expect and how to care after heart valve replacement surgery.
What Should a Patient Expect Immediately After a Heart Valve Replacement?
- After the procedure, most patients should anticipate spending some time in the intensive care unit (ICU) so that the doctors can closely monitor how their body is responding and how their new valve is working.
- Generally, one should plan to spend two to five days in the hospital. The doctor will make the patient move during that time so they can start to regain their strength. This could begin with quick trips to the restroom and progress to calming walks down the hallway accompanied by a physical therapist or nurse.
What Should a Patient Expect After They Leave the Hospital?
- It may take several weeks after valve replacement before one feels normal again.
- Ideally, one will feel significantly better than before, particularly if they were previously dealing with symptoms like exhaustion, breathing difficulties, and other signs of a malfunctioning heart valve.
- The surgeon will explain in detail what to expect during this phase of the recovery before the patient leaves the hospital.
- The patient will also get detailed instructions about diet, exercise, medications, and other important information about valve replacement.
A few medical recommendations for a successful recovery following heart valve replacement are as follows:
- Take all medications exactly as prescribed
- Take proper care of the surgical incisions
- Get plenty of rest
- Engage in prescribed activities, like walking, without going overboard
- Go to the scheduled appointments, which may involve blood work to check medication levels and diagnostic studies to assess the functioning of the new valve.
Importance of Exercise After the Surgery
Even though the purpose of valve replacement is to increase blood flow and heart health, the heart is a muscle that needs to be trained to remain strong. Since each case is different, the surgeon will evaluate the patient’s health condition and then advise the patient to start an exercise regimen that strengthens their heart. One can always start with mild walking and exercising.
Exercising Tips
- Always get the surgeon’s permission before engaging in any kind of physical activity following the procedure.
- Choose a qualified instructor who has experience working with patients recovering from heart surgery and who is connected to reliable medical resources.
- It is crucial to pace oneself, building up to a higher degree of activity gradually over time. But never burden oneself immediately.
- To prevent dehydration and the strain exercising puts on the heart, make sure to drink lots of water before, during, and after the routine.
- Instead of working out in extreme heat, cold, or humidity, consider working out in an air conditioned place.
- After exercise, take a lukewarm shower and avoid hot saunas because the heat and steam can stress the heart.
- Doing the exercise that suits one’s age and stage of life is one of the best things one can do for their heart and general well-being.
Importance of Following a Healthy Diet After the Surgery
The numerous health benefits that the heart receives from forming the habit of choosing nutritious meals over processed or convenient options like chips, fries, and sugary snacks are difficult to quantify. One can make tasty, healthy meals. For example, apple slices coated with peanut butter are simultaneously crunchy, sweet, and savory, and they will not put a strain on one’s heart.
Following are some heart-healthy foods:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Fish, poultry, beans, lean meats, and dairy products
- Complex carbohydrates such as whole wheat pasta, sweet potatoes, and 100% whole grain breads
- Healthy fats, such as seeds, nuts, avocados, and olive oil
To gain guidance and tips on meal preparation and menu planning, consider scheduling a consultation with a registered dietitian if one is unsure about how to prepare heart-healthy foods.
If a person notices any signs of heart disease, they should consult with Dr. Sujay Shad at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital for an evaluation and proper treatment. The expert heart surgeon specializes in a variety of heart procedures, including aortic surgery, heart transplants, aortic dissection, coronary bypass surgery, heart valve surgery, and mitral valve repair in India.
For additional information regarding heart surgery, visit Sir Ganga Ram Hospital today.