New to this side of mountain

[ARGreenMN]

Jim, sounds like you're doing great, being released so early and all! Hey, I know what you mean about that breathing thing, but don't get discouraged. I couldn't get it above 1000 for the first couple days, but by the 3rd and 4th day I was getting it up to 1500 and it got better almost every day thereafter. Was up to about 4000 last time I checked. Those lungs will come back - just give 'em time. And don't skimp on those breathing exercises - they're important. And so is the walking! Let us know how you're doing when you get home!

 

[Bean Counter]

I vaguely remember them pulling it out and don't remember it being that big of a deal. Actually, the worst so far has been the removal of the catheter.

 

[ARGreenMN]

Totally agree, the catheter wasn't fun, lol. And have fun peeing for the next couple times I don't think it affects girls like that, but for us lucky guys - sheesh, can't they think of a better way??? I think I'll invent something that goes around the outside instead of inside

 

[Bean Counter]

OK, they released me to go home today (3 days post op). Feels good to be home, but I may have over did things today. I never did get in my nap and then I did a lot of walking today. I think the car ride even took some out of me. Anyway, I am trying to force myself to stay up to at least 9:00 (1.5 hrs from now) since I know I will probably only sleep for 6 hours or so and don't want to be up too early. I did manage to get to the top of our 3 story building using the stairs without incident. Pain has been pretty low. My wife is out getting my prescription pain meds (tylenol w/ codine), so I will be able to sleep right through the paid as I find it most difficult to lie flat on my back. We will experiment with that.

Today they took out the chest tube and that was no big deal. It was a little uncomfortable, but not as bad as the cathetar.

 

[nngbwh]

Great to be home. Thanks for the update.

 

[Luckyguy17]

Jim,

Good on you for getting home. Go slow but stay active and recovery should accelerate for you now.

Jim, I also had sleep disorder for 1st weeks following operation and corrected initially by using over the counter sleeping aid for overnight rest. Also tried to stay upright and active in daytime and this seemed to help with nighttime sleep.
After a few days got 7 hours initially of uninterrupted sleep, now 30 days post op, can easily sleep 9-10 hours like i could 40 years ago.

For lying on back, found that I needed additional pillow to be a little more upright for 1st 10 days or so, flat is probably stretching you somewhat.

Gil

 

[Penny]

wow such a speedy recovery! I am hoping they will let me out of the hospital as quick as you! Good to hear all is well. Take it easy, get lots of rest! We are thinking of ya!

 

[Luana]

Wow, guess that equine valve is doing good, huh? Glad you're home. Don't worry so much about the numbers on the breathing thing, just do it. Good grief, I don't think I got to 1000 until weeks later after surgery, but I had a lot of SOB. It all works out in due time. Take care!