Recovering from a coronary artery bypass surgery can feel challenging, but following the right guidance can make healing smoother and faster. Dr Devananda NS, Head and Consultant of Cardiothoracic Vascular Surgery and Heart & Lung Transplant Surgery at Manipal Hospital, Old Airport Road, shares useful tips for patients recovering from bypass surgery.
Many people think the first few weeks after surgery require complete bedrest, but gentle physical activity is actually important for faster recovery. Patients should start with light movements and short walks, gradually increasing distance and pace according to comfort. For the first couple of weeks, patients should avoid crowded places because surgery temporarily lowers immunity, making them more vulnerable to infections. This is especially important as 60-70% of bypass patients are diabetic or hypertensive, and infections can delay recovery significantly.
Starting with a few hundred meters to a couple of kilometers of walking per day, at a slow, moderate, or brisk pace, is recommended. By 4-6 weeks, most patients can slowly resume normal activities, but should avoid heavy lifting over 4-6 kg or driving until fully recovered. Regular follow-ups with the doctor are essential to monitor healing and detect any complications early.
While physical activity is crucial, permanent lifestyle changes are equally important to maintain heart health after bypass surgery. Harmful habits like smoking should be stopped immediately. Patients with high blood pressure or diabetes need to manage blood pressure and blood sugar through healthy eating, regular exercise, proper medication, and stress management. Maintaining a healthy weight and getting enough sleep also helps the body heal faster.
Aerobic exercises such as brisk walking, cycling, and swimming are highly beneficial. These activities improve endurance and support the heart by promoting natural collateralisation. Collateral vessels are small blood vessels that remain closed under normal conditions but open when the heart requires more blood flow. Aerobic activity helps these vessels function, improving circulation to the heart.
ALSO READ: Upcoming fighter jets set to modernize the Indian Air Force by 2035
Another benefit of aerobic activity is that it helps assess the success of the bypass. Patients may notice chest pain during physical activity that was not present before; this could indicate a graft blockage. Monitoring such symptoms during exercise helps doctors intervene early if needed.
Healthy lifestyle choices should also include a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low in saturated fats, salt, and sugar. Regular exercise combined with a healthy diet improves heart function, reduces the risk of further heart problems, and promotes long-term recovery. Stress management techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can also play a key role in overall heart health.
In summary, recovery from bypass surgery requires both careful physical activity and lifestyle changes. Gentle walking and gradual exercise help the heart and improve overall health, while stopping smoking, managing blood sugar and blood pressure, eating healthy, and sleeping well ensure the disease stays under control. Regular medical check-ups and monitoring symptoms are essential to prevent complications. Following these steps can help patients regain strength, improve heart function, and enjoy a healthier, active life after bypass surgery.
By combining proper exercise, diet, and lifestyle changes, patients can make a strong recovery and reduce the risk of future heart problems. Consistent effort and discipline in following post-surgery advice ensure long-term heart health and a better quality of life.
Copyright © © 2022 Copyright. All Rights Reserved with Arth Parkash