How to Maintain Heart Health: Post-Cardiac Surgery

After undergoing cardiac surgery, the road to recovery can feel like both a relief and a challenge. It is normal to feel uncertain about the best way to take care of your heart during this time. The good news is that by focusing on a few simple yet important steps, you can help your heart heal and reduce the chances of future complications. This guide aims to support you through the post-cardiac surgery recovery process, offering practical advice on sticking to your medication routine, making heart-friendly lifestyle changes, and attending regular follow-ups.

1. Adhere to Medication Regimens

First and foremost, adhere to your medication plan post-cardiac surgery. These medications are designed to support your healing and help prevent any complications from arising in the future. Whether it’s medication to control blood pressure, pain relief, or prevent clotting, it’s crucial to take each dose as directed by your healthcare provider. By staying consistent with your medication, you’ll give your heart the best chance to heal properly and reduce the risk of setbacks along the way.

2. Make Heart-Healthy Lifestyle Changes

A heart-healthy lifestyle is an essential element of post-cardiac procedure care. Adopting a nutritious diet, rich in vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains, can support heart health after surgery. A heart-healthy diet helps manage cholesterol levels, control blood pressure, and provide essential nutrients for recovery.

You should also incorporate regular physical activity into your daily life. However, do consult your heart specialist before starting any exercise programme post-cardiac surgery. Typically, patients are advised to wait a few weeks after their procedure—often around 2 to 4 weeks—before beginning physical activity, depending on individual recovery. Walking is also the recommended activity for post-surgery patients, as it’s gentle on the body and can be easily integrated into your day. Start with short walks, gradually increasing the duration as you feel comfortable.

Many people also benefit from enrolling in a cardiac rehabilitation programme, where exercise is tailored to their specific needs and recovery progress. This guidance ensures that you build strength safely and avoid overexerting yourself.

3. Manage Stress and Mental Well-being

It’s not just your physical health that matters after a cardiac procedure—mental health is just as important. Studies indicate that 10–20% of patients experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression post-cardiac surgery. This not only compromises your own mental well-being but also interferes with your recovery process. Consider practising deep breathing exercises, meditation, or even light yoga to reduce stress and tension. Most importantly, do not hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional if you feel overwhelmed or anxious.

4. Monitor Crucial Signs

Post-cardiac surgery, pay attention to any changes in your body. Sudden or unexplained weight gain can be an important sign to watch for, as it may indicate fluid retention, which is common after heart surgery. Gaining more than 1–2 kilograms in a short period—usually within a day or two—should be taken seriously and reported to your doctor. Additionally, check your incision site regularly for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or unusual pain. This ensures that everything is proceeding as expected. 

5. Post-cardiac Procedure Follow-up

Last but not least, stay on top of all your follow-up appointments. Regular visits with your healthcare professional will allow them to monitor your recovery, adjust your care plan if needed, and catch any potential issues early. 

This habit of proactive health monitoring should continue even after your recovery period, as it plays a vital role in maintaining long-term heart health. Regular check-ups and cardiac evaluation can help identify any poorly controlled risk factors or early signs of progressive heart disease before they become serious problems.  

Conclusion

The post-cardiac surgery recovery process can be exhausting, but each step you take in caring for your heart brings you closer to a stronger, healthier future. By following your medication plan, making heart-healthy changes, managing stress, and keeping up with your check-ups, you’re giving yourself the best opportunity for a full recovery. 

For personalised guidance and support on your heart health before and after surgery, look no further than Dr. Leslie Tay. With over 20 years of clinical experience, we offer comprehensive follow-up care and advanced diagnostic tools, ranging from echocardiograms to ECG tests, ensuring your heart health remains a top priority. 

Contact us today.