Connect
← Return to HCM-ers: Introduce yourself or just say hi
Discussion
HCM-ers: Introduce yourself or just say hi
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) | Last Active: 1 day ago | Replies (1049)Comment receiving replies
Hi Balto lady.
I'm a 73 y.o. man who had a myectomy and mitral valve repair 7 weeks ago today.
You say you don't want a hospital bed, but what about an electric recliner? I got one just before surgery (lucked out on Craigslist for a brand new one at a bargain price), and I'm still sleeping in it. It is roomy and comfortable and inhibits my tendency to roll to my side. I did stuff small pillows next to my hips in the beginning to help keep me stable.
I've read here that some people use pillows in bed, so I expect someone who's done that will pist here, but I'm very happy with my choice (and it's not an unattractive addition to my living room).
Good luck with the surgery! While it is too early for me to know the extent of my long-term improvement of symptoms, I am optimistic, and I am up to walking 1.5 to 2 miles many days. I start cardio rehab soon, to see whether they have useful ideas and techniques to help me get more fully active again.
Replies to "Hi Balto lady. I'm a 73 y.o. man who had a myectomy and mitral valve repair..."
Connect
That’s a good idea. Hadn’t thought of a recliner. Has the myectomy helped with your pre-operative symptoms if you had these-shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness or palpitations. When I stand up, I also feel sometimes like I don’t have good blood flow to my legs. It takes about 30 seconds to feel better. I already got a pacemaker last year.
Sounds like you are walking well! I’ll probably do cardiac rehab too. My surgeon says it’s up to me. Did you have any other surgery on your mitral valve at the same time. Thank you! Wishing you good improvement and good health!