I have another dumb question.

[witzkeyman]

Surgery coming up Tuesday.
#1-can I take Tylenol (just 2 to sleep)?
#2-can I take a bath using epsom salt tonight to relax? (external, not ingesting)
dumb, but I want to make sure.

 

[geebee]

I see no problems with either. Tylenol won't affect bleeding and anything you can do to relax will only help you later.

Music and candles in the bathroom along with the soak will also help.

 

[marky]

I wouldn't know why not..to both questions.
Make sure someone posts on the post op board after your sugery..
You are in our prayers for Tuesday!

 

[marie]

I can only tell you that I wasn't told not to take tylenol and my cardio, surgeon and hospital all know that I take it. It was on my list of medications that I take.
Earline

 

[Superbob]

I think you're okay with both of those things, though it might not be a bad idea to call and ask a nurse about the Tylenol.

As far as a hot bath goes, I know it is AFTER the surgery that you will have to forego those for a time (the surgeon's office will tell you how long), as the sternum heals. Will have to make do with showers for a while.

Good that you're asking questions, and getting mentally prepared. You will do fine. Keep us posted. We will be sending our best vibes and wishes....

BTW, there are no "dumb" questions here -- ask away about anything. You are among friends here.

 

[witzkeyman]

think I found the answer to epsom salt. it robs the body of salt, and may cause fainting. niot 4 me, but thanks anyway. I appreciate it, and thanks for the good wishes. can you tell I'm anxious to get it over with?

 

[Bina]

I think a good soak in the tub would be nice anyway....maybe you can add baking soda or oatmeal to soothe and relax yourself. Hey, throw a tea bag in the bath if you like.

 

[cp172]

Hi Witzkeyman,

You are in my prayers. Just think in a few days you will be on the way to recovery as opposed to those of us wondering around in the waiting room worrying about all the thousand of details that race through your mind pre-surgery.Oops.. I think I am whinning.

God Bless

CP from middle ga

 

[Debbie]

No dumb questions here, keep posting and keep reading, you'll do fine Debbie

 

[aussigal]

A few drops of pure Lavender oil in your bath might help calm you...if you find yourself very distracted by the upcoming surgery valium or similar from your Doc might give your nerves the break they need. Good luck in getting some rest before surgery...you will be over the mountain before you know what happened.

 

[hensylee]

think I found the answer to epsom salt. it robs the body of salt, and may cause fainting. niot 4 me, but thanks anyway. I appreciate it, and thanks for the good wishes. can you tell I'm anxious to get it over with?

We know how anxious you are. Many of us found a sudden calm as we walked in the door of the hospital. Kinda like we finally gave in and there was no going back and we had finally put ourselves in someone else's hands and let them take over our worry. Blessins.........

 

[shenews]

Focus on the positive...relax

Focus on the positive...relax

I know exactly how you feel. I felt the same way before I had my AVR on Dec. 5. It's been nearly 7 weeks now, and I am feeling great! Since I work on a computer mostly, I was allowed to work part time three hours a day from home just two weeks after surgery, and my surgeon allowed me to go back to work in the office only full time four weeks after surgery. Of course, I am still taking it easy on the sternum area.
I found my peace through prayer, but do whatever works for you. Just remember that the condition you have is much worse than the surgery, and the surgery will hopefully clear the way for a much better, more productive life. I, personally, found that childbirth was more painful than open heart surgery and I had three children...so to me, OHS was a piece of cake.
It's no picnic, mind you, and you will experience a host of emotions during the recovery process. I found that writing on the computer, and reading books helped me stay sharp and focused during those weeks afterwards.
Knowing and talking with folks who had experienced the same surgery in the past also helped. So, chatting with the folks here will help you stay focused on the positive and good things that will follow for you.
I will pray that you find your peace and relaxation. I know you will do fine in and after surgery. May God bless.

 

[njean]

I'll keep you in my prayers! Wishing you all the best! Take care & try to relax prior to your big day!