Post op Arrhythmias
Post op Arrhythmias
Take heart....sorry.....the arryhthmias that occur after heart surgery occur because the heart has undergone surgery, NOT because of anything you did or can do. You can probably minimize the number of occurences, which, as I'm sure you've read and will read in subsequent posts, are a normal part of the healing process, by keeping yourself adequately hydrated. Drink lots of water.
But I need to address something you said: "I know that all arrhythmias cause anxiety, risk, and the need for additional medications for control. " Actually, most of them don't do any of the above. There is an increased risk of stroke with A-fib, but it's not true that all arrhythmias cause anxiety. I admit, it can be a bit worrisome to see your heart rate beating out an abnormal rhythm, but it's like flying. Some people get anxious and some people don't. If you keep in mind that abnormal rhythms during the first 6 mths (usually on a declining scale) are normal, there is no reason for you to be anxious nor is there a need for medication for your anxiety. If you need it, of course, you can always ask the docs for a prescription for it. I had a whole bottle of Alprazolam (Xanax) in my medicine cabinet and never felt the need to take any (although, I did a couple times the week before my surgery) and I had numerous bouts of A-fib (very short periods and under 100 BPM), in the first few weeks post op.
Yes, you will undoubtedly be on a beta blocker to help keep your heart rate a little slower and to help it stay more regular. And here's the bonus: most, if not all, beta blockers also significantly reduce anxiety. Quite effectively, I might add. You'll be fine. You only need to be concerned if the irregular beats don't subside after several hours or if they are really fast, like 110 - 120+. My numbers may be off a bit, but they're in the right vicinity. Most hospitals and/or surgical groups provide guidance on what constitutes an emergency and what warrants a call to your doctor. It wouldn't hurt to ask for this information now for your own stress relief.
You may also receive another medication to more specifically keep your heart rhythm regular Amiodarone is a commonly prescribed one. Another, Coumadin (Warfarin) will likely be given as an anticoagulant, which reduces the risk of having a stroke caused by clot formations.
Another med you'll likely get is an Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhiibter or Angiotensin Receptor Blocker (ARB) for helping to keep your blood pressure low to ease your heart's workload and aid it in the healing process.
Not to make light of aortic valve replacement surgery, but to a great extent, the medical professionals have it pretty well covered. The more you read these forums and posts, you'll see that the vast majority of us, especially those of us who have just needed an AVR (and perhaps a Maze procedure) rarely have complications. Typically, the healthier your are going into it, the quicker you bounce back.
Yes, arrhythmias can be an ongoing occurrence. But millions of non-heart patients get them. Most people just aren't as cardiac-aware as we are, understandably. I often get them more for several hours after really hard cardiovascular workouts . Not A-fib, but Premature Atrial Contractions (PACs) and a rare run of tachycardia (anywhere from 5 - 12 beats). This is normal. I haven't been on beta blockers or anit-coagulants for well over a year and my docs are perfectly OK with that. If you get a tissue valve you shouldn't need anticoag. therapy but you'll need another AVR at some point. If you go mechanical, you may hear your valve more than with tissue, you will need anticoag. therapy (see On-x as a poss. future exception), but you shouldn't have to get it replaced ever again. No guarantees on anything, but that's the general expectation.
My bottom line message to you is, definitely continue to educate yourself, but please don't sweat the arrhythmias that, yes, you will most likely experience. The ones that occur as a result of the heart being messed with in such a major way, are almost always well controlled, minor and will drop off in frequency quite noticeably after the first few weeks post-op.
Meanwhile, the wonderful VR family will be here to help you through the tough spots...before and after your surgery!