FAQ's after Coronary Bypass Surgery

Note: Remember each patient's recovery will be different. Keep in contact with your doctors and don't be afraid to ask questions. Here are a few of the most common questions we get from patients and some common answers. Your situation may be different and you should not rely on these questions and answers to be relevant to your individual case. Always stay in consult with your chosen doctor.

Loosing your appetite after surgery is very normal. Once you are more physically active your appetite will begin to return. Eating several small meals several times a day (even when you're not hungry) will help this.

Depression is also normal following a large and invasive surgery such as coronary artery bypass. Getting outside in the sun and keeping in contact with friends and family members will be your best medicine. You will require help right after surgery. Get out of bed every morning and get yourself dressed. This will take a lot of effort at first but will help with your mind-set in the long run. Talking to friends and family about your surgery and regular daily news items will help you and your loved ones feel better about your recovery.

Depending upon what type of work you do, most patients are able to return to work 6 to 8 weeks after their surgery. You will not be able to lift anything over 5 pounds for at least 2 months to allow time for your sternum to heal properly.

Typically after bypass surgery you can begin driving 6 to 8 weeks after your surgery. You will be told at your follow-up visit (2 weeks after you are discharged from the hospital) if there are any changes to this estimated time frame.

After bypass surgery you should not lift anything over 5 pounds for at least 8 weeks after the surgery. This is to allow your sternum time to heal. Once that time has passed, gradually work up to lifting heavier items. This goes for swinging a golf club as well! The bone needs time to heal before you begin twisting and lifting heavy objects.

All heart patients have concerns about resuming sexual activity. As a general rule, once you can climb two flights of stairs without any problems you can make love. However, don't expect too much too fast. It will take time to get back to your "before heart surgery" routine. Avoid drinking alcohol if possible. Alcohol is a depressant and might make your heart work harder. If you are nervous, foreplay is advised to gradually increase your heart rate. Should you fell any chest discomfort, irregular heartbeats or shortness of breath (that does not return to normal shortly afterward) consult your cardiologist.

Selecting heart healthy foods is always advised. Try to eat less fat, cholesterol and salt. Eating more whole grain breads and beans is good. Skim milk or 1% is better than whole milk or even 2%. When eating chicken, remove the skin before cooking and try to choose white meat rather than dark meat. Try sherbert instead of ice cream. Use egg whites instead of whole eggs or even try egg substitutes as an alternative. Snack smart; pretzels, low fat crackers, raw vegetables and fruit are great snacks. When shopping for groceries, try to plan your meals and snacks so you are not tempted to purchase all the delicious junk food you are used to.

Don't get discouraged if you can't make drastic changes to your diet all at once. It will take time to get into new eating habits. Keep an eye on your cholesterol you may need to be on a cholesterol lowering medication. Consult your cardiologist if you have any doubts.

Walking is a great exercise. You should begin walking before you leave the hospital. Work up to walking around the block within a few weeks of being discharged. Start walking around inside your house several time a day. Then walk outside with your spouse a few houses down and back. Once you feel comfortable walking to the end of the block and back try around the block. Speed will come with time. Use your best judgment and pace yourself stop and rest when you feel it is necessary. Don't expect a marathon to occur all in one day! Remember walking is not only beneficial to your heart. If the weather is inclement or your neighborhood streets and sidewalks are uneven, walking in an indoor shopping mall is great. You can meet other walkers over time and form great friendships!