Feeling of Pressure in Chest, Lower Neck?

[dan777]

I am at the 3+ week point and doing fine. Warfarin levels seem to have stabilized and I walk about 2 miles, twice a day. I continue to use the spirometer (sp?) and can max it out. Sleeping is still a bit of a hit and miss thing but I have one problem I would like your input on.

When I get into bed after being upright all day I get this significant feeling of pressure in my chest and pressure / pain in my lower neck. Last night, I made this a little easier by starting out with three pillows and reducing it to one over the course of the next ten minutes.

The feeling always goes away after 5-10 minutes and it does not happen when I get up to use the toilet and return to bed.

Is this a typical recovery issue for others?

Thanks !

 

[Susan BAV]

I don't think I recall a specific thing like this occuring for me...

But, how's your posture? Do you think that maybe you're sitting or standing in a hunched way, possibly favoring the painful area, throughout the daytime?

 

[Bina]

At 3 weeks post op I was still lying down for an hour in late morning and another hour in afternoon. I remember many times having a feeling of pressure in my neck area, probably the carotid arteries reacting to a change in blood pressure......?? maybe check with your doctor.

 

[Freddie]

dan777, I think I know what your feeling and Susan just might be right. Because it happened to me. While I was sitting, standing or walking I would (without my knowledge) bring in my left shoulder......and it was my doctor who pointed this out.

Now I don't know if this will help, But its worth a try. Trying laying flat on your back on your bed and let your arm/shoulder hang to the floor and stretch it down and back, but keep your neck straight and the shoulder square on the bed. Do the same to the other side. Then in time, slowly stretch your neck by bringing your ear to the opposite shoulder you are stretching.

Please remember to do this slowly, your only 3 weeks post-op, and there are so many little mussels and nerve endings that are trying to heal.

Good luck and take care

 

[dan777]

I think I am guilty as charged posture wise. I try to have a good posture but am guessing I do not try hard enough. Gave the exercises a try this afternoon and will continue and see what happens. My next Dr's appt is in two days so will follow up with him if required.

Thanks for the suggestions !!!