question for anyone that has had open heart surgery?

Question

Hello

I have a few questions for anyone who has had bi-pass open heart surgery. My father 53 years old had a 5 way bypass October 19th he has came home and is sleeping in a hospital bed. Even though he is out of the hospital he is still not able to sleep very well he is taking about 7-10 different meds at one time and has even been taking half of a sleeping pill and was told to take a tylonal pm this has not helped and making him fill weaker. Did anyone have any of the same problems i like to say to him he's not alone on this problem may make him fill a little better. Also if anyone knows of anyway to find support groups for him that be great to and any other encouraging advice you might give for them would be most helpful!

Thank you!

Answer 1

It depends a bit on why he isn't sleeping.

Mostly it's because of the pain or discomfort of the chest wound. This will take another 3-5 weeks to heal up generally. Pain relief such as tylenol is usually helpful here and if the tylenol doesn't work then he might need something stronger.

However, there might be other reasons why he might not be sleeping so well:

He might be getting short of breath at night - take him to the cardiologist.

He might be having bad dreams from one of his medications.

Answer 2

My dad and a few close friends have had open heart surgery and just through my observations, they experience alot of formerly "bottled" emotions once the surgery is completed. This could be your father's previously sequestered anxiousness. It will take time and gradual understanding for him to get over this - understand he has experienced the joy at surviving and now he is over the initial euphoria and dealing with the pain and agony of the wound - only complicated further if he has additional medical issues such as diabetes, etc. He will be "weak" for a month to more and it is important that he walks daily and does a little more each day to increase his strength and stamina. He has taken a "huge" hit to his body and the best thing you can do is to support, encourage and get him to think about trending off or down on the meds. The physical activity will pump his "feel good" chemistry and will only assist in uplifting his spirits.

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), it is said that the heart is the reservoir of all of your emotions. Typically, post surgery, all of those come out because the heart has been "repaired". You will see him be a little more emotional and it is all a good thing. He is making up for past suppressions. Stay upbeat and supportive. In three months, all of this should pass. Best to dad....!