We've all heard it before: "life's a journey, not a destination." While that may be true in life, there are some things that are defined by the destination and not the journey. For example, what about a trip to the grocery store? Chances are, you're not too focused on the journey itself; it's a combination of roads you've driven a thousand times before, stoplights you know like the back of your hand, and turns you could make with your eyes closed (although that's not recommended). In this case, most of us are more concerned with the destination. What do we need at the store? Will it be crowded? How fast can we get the job done? It's true: there are many things in life where destination is emphasized over journey--and heart surgery is one of them.
Destination
It may seem as if everything leading up to heart surgery is the journey, and the procedure itself is the destination--but in reality, the destination is regaining health. Heart surgery is really just one leg of a much larger journey to good health; recovery, rehabilitation, and rest are more legs of the same journey, and these have their own challenges. For example, how can you manage Pain After Open Heart Surgery? How can you continue exercising without causing damage or discomfort? How can you help your body heal and recover? These are all parts of the recovery part of a heart surgery journey, and, with your healthcare team, you will be able to overcome them.
After Heart Surgery
So, what does aftercare look like? Here's a quick look!
- Sternum support. One of the most important tools you'll need on your recovery journey is a sternum support device. These devices help to minimize Pain After Open Heart Surgery, and they make breathing and moving easier and more comfortable.
- Breathing. It seems strange to think so much about breathing, an action we usually do unconsciously--but after heart surgery, breathing easily is a journey of its own. You will be given a "breathing machine" to help exercise and strengthen your lungs; follow your doctor's directions to get the most benefit.
- Thinking. The recovery journey requires more than just physical healing--it takes mental work, too. It is very important to try to remain positive. You will likely face negative feelings--depression, anger, guilt--but these will pass. Focus on your healing, on your life now, and things will start to seem easier.
Interested in more tips on managing Pain After Open Heart Surgery? Contact us today!