Any form of physical exertion needs to be avoided strictly after an open heart surgery, especially the ones which put an extra pressure on the cut region. Lifting heavy loads should be strictly prohibited especially above 4 to 5 pounds. Pulling, pushing and stretching your arms can also lead to the exertion of pressure on the stitch. You should use your arms to even reach something overhead because that too creates pressure on the stitch.
Numbness in the cut region just after the surgery is normal.
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Numbness in the cut region is felt by many people. It is completely normal. You may also feel itching and a feeling of tightness in your chest region. All these things are completely normal after surgery. Just make a note that you are not having as much discomfort as you had before your surgery. With time, these feelings will also disappear. Ask your doctor for pain medications if you have too much pain.
Be careful and report at once if you notice
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Once you have undergone your open heart surgery, you must take care of a few things. Firstly keep a proper check on the cut that was made. Make sure nothing is oozing out from there and the edges of the cut should not appear as if they are going to pull apart. Having a fever over 100F is also unnatural. Don t take a bath unless a few days have passed. Keep the cut dry and clean it properly to prevent any infection.
Swelling in the leg is nothing unusual after an open heart bypass surgery and it can be attended to.
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If nerve grafts were taken from the leg during the open heart bypass surgery then your leg may swell up after the surgery. Removing the vein sometimes leads to effects such as swelling of the legs. But this can be attended to. Patients should keep their legs on a higher platform when they sit or lay down. Don t be afraid when your leg swells up. Continue walking from time to time and circulation will be normalized gradually. Report it to your doctor in case the swelling doesn t subside.
Diet does not help to recover after an open heart bypass surgery.
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A healthy and proper diet is very important after an open heart bypass surgery. Consume more of fruits and vegetables that are rich in antioxidants. This would prevent the development of any infection. A proper diet can also keep your blood pressure under control and thus ensure the safety of your heart. Consume whole grains more to promote your heart health. Increase your lean protein consumption as they help in quick recovery.
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