The time it takes to return to normal after heart surgery is different for each patient.  You will slowly regain your strength over the course of a few weeks.  Plan to spend your first day at home resting, and each day after that you will feel a little stronger.  You will have good days and bad days, but remember to be patient.  It is also normal to feel depressed, angry, or afraid after heart surgery, and talking to someone about these feelings can help. 

Taking your medications

Your physician may prescribe you medication after heart surgery.  It is important to take your medication as directed.  Keeping a chart or putting your pills in a 7-day pill box may help you stay on track. 

Move carefully

During your first few weeks at home, be sure to move carefully.  Your breastbone takes 4 to 6 weeks to heal properly.  Sudden movements will not interfere with healing or cause your breastbone any damage, but you may feel pain or hear a clicking sound. 

• Turn with your entire body, and face the object instead of twisting your upper body.
• Try to keep items you use most at waist level to avoid bending down or reaching when possible. 
• Avoid heavy lifting.
• Take care when sitting down, standing up, and getting in and out of bed

Pace yourself

Moving around helps you to regain strength and keeps your spirits up, but be sure to pace yourself.  Doing too much will make you tire more easily.  Relax between activities, and get plenty of rest.  Slow down if you feel any of the following symptoms:

• A dull ache, tightness, or increased pain in your chest, arms, or shoulders
• Pounding or fluttering of your heartbeat
• Difficulty breathing
• Feeling very tired, dizzy, or faint

Exercising

Excersise is one of the best ways to regain your strength after heart surgery.  You can start by walking for a few minutes several times a day.  Eventually increase your speed over 8 to 10 weeks, and slowly build up to walking 25 to 30 minutes a day.  Riding a stationary bike is another good exersise to try.  Set the tension at a low level, and keep your upper body upright and relaxed as you pedal.  Start by pedaling for 5 to 6 minutes a day.  You may feel weak, tire easily, and experience stiffness at first, but go slowly.  Build up your time and speed gradually.     

Driving

For your own safety and the safety of others, do not drive until your physician gives you permission.  Your reaction time is slower until you regain your strength, and the medications you may be taking can also slow your reaction time.  You could become dizzy or pass out behind the wheel, and if you were in a car accident, you could damage your breastbone.