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HCM-ers: Introduce yourself or just say hi
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) | Last Active: 1 day ago | Replies (793)Comment receiving replies
Thank you so much for all this information and all helpful tips to help me prepare! Like you, Ive had a hystectomy as well as gall bladder surgery and appendectomy - so no stranger to surgery and recovery, but I know this is going to be a whole other level! Im surprisingly calm/at peace but Im sure once I have the date, reality will hit! My biggest worry is waking up intubated in ICU… I know I’ll want that out stat! I dont like taking pain meds as they make me nauseous but not afraid to ask if its bad. Ive already inquired into an electric/lift recliner to help me get up. Did you need a walker at home? Thankfully Im in a ranch so no need to take stairs. How long did you stay near hospital before heading home? I’ll know more after the 21st and will you posted! Thank you again! 😊
Replies to "Thank you so much for all this information and all helpful tips to help me prepare!..."
I’m wondering how long will I need button down shirts before I can lift arms to dress.
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Yes @cwarren29860, please keep me posted...I will virtually hold your hand and share any tips I can think of that I haven't already.
So, no walker for me. I was in really good health except for the HOCM. I was very active and that helped me in recovery. The recliner I could have done without, but my man thought it would be easier for me. We stayed in Rochester an extra three days. I was able to go to a post-op appointment. I would have been fine to come home a day (or two) after discharge, but since this was my first open heart surgery I was super cautious. I think the thought of open heart surgery gets us so hyped up, and even though it is a big surgery, it's not as horrible as we make it. Don't get me wrong...it is not fun and there are some tough moments, but each day gets easier and easier. And getting your life back is priceless. I cannot imagine living with HOCM like I was. I feel like a new person and am so grateful.
The ICU stay and pain med thing is definitely difficult. I took half of a half of one pain med. It made me itchy and so from then on it was extra strength Tylenol. Which did nothing for me. Do not be afraid to ask for pain meds. I still marvel that all I got was Tylenol. They have a strict pain med policy.
I look forward to hearing back from you after your appointment. I'll be thinking of you!
Debra