Preparing Yourself for Heart Surgery

No matter what type of heart surgery you plan to have or need to have, it can be frightening. It is one of the most invasive types of procedures and it often has lasting consequences. Your surgeon will discuss the treatment options with you and tell you exactly what to expect from this type of procedure. Keep in mind that there are many types of surgical procedures for this organ of the body. That includes stents, angioplasty, and vascular procedures. When you discuss what your needs are, it is up to you to stay calm and to prepare for what is happening.

Talk to Your Doctor

If you have questions or concerns, discuss them with your surgeon. Many times, you can have a better outcome if you are fully prepared going in to the heart surgery. Be informed but be sure you are informed with the right information as it relates to your specific case. Sometimes, you can spend a lot of time and money investing in research online only to find out that it does not apply in your case. Discuss your case to the fullest with your surgeon.

Taking Care of You

In the weeks leading up to your procedure there are things you can do to improve the outcome. Discuss anything you should do with your doctor to ensure you are ready. Before going in, here are some questions you may want to ask.

-Discuss your medications. In some cases, you may be asked to stop taking any type of blood thinning medication, including aspirin as this can reduce your risk of complications during the procedure.

-Talk about losing weight if you have extra weight to lose. This may help to reduce your risk and it definitely helps to reduce the workload of the heart.

-Talk about any food restrictions or indications. Depending on the procedure you plan to have, there may be specific dietary changes you need to make.

-Discuss your recovery now, before the procedure. That way you can plan for leave from work and to have someone at home with you while you recovery.

-Talk about the realistic outcome and limitations you will have, if any. It is a good idea fully to understand what the process will include and that includes discussing pain.

All of these factors play a role in how well you will do. Discuss your situation with your surgeon now before you have the heart surgery. You can then make the decision to get the best possible care available to you and you give yourself the best chance to succeed during the procedure itself.