Heart valve replacement is a major treatment that necessitates time for your body to heal. The amount of time it takes to replace a heart valve gets typically determined by your current health and the procedure you opt for, minimally invasive versus open-heart surgery. The recovery from surgery is gradual. Your rehabilitation will need regular check-ups and monitoring. Other lifestyle modifications may be necessary to improve your overall health.

What to expect once my heart valve gets replaced?

After the heart valve surgery, most patients should anticipate spending time in the intensive care unit so that doctors can closely monitor how your replacement valve is doing and how your body is reacting. However, you will most likely sleep through your ICU stay. Overall, you can expect to be in the hospital for two to five days. Soon you will be able to get yourself up and moving during that time to start regaining strength.

It could begin with quick trips to the bathroom and strolls down the hall with the assistance of a physical therapist.

What happens after getting discharged from the hospital?

It may take several weeks for you to feel normal again after a valve replacement. Hopefully, you will feel a lot better than usual, especially if you have been suffering from weariness, shortness of breath, and other symptoms linked to a malfunctioning heart valve. Doctors and nurses will spend time explaining what to expect during this stage of your recovery before you leave the hospital.

You will also get precise instructions about your medications, physical activity, food, and other crucial surgery-related information. The best medical advice for a successful outcome following a heart valve replacement comprises the following:

• Take all prescription medications exactly as directed, including blood thinners, which may be new to you.
• Surgical incisions should be cared for as directed.
• Get adequate sleep.
• Walking as suggested, but not excessively.
• Keep your lab and doctor appointments, which may involve diagnostic examinations to assess the functioning of your replacement valve and bloodwork to assess medication levels on time.

Expect to return for periodic examinations of your heart valve surgery and heart health even after recovering and perhaps feeling like a new person. You must keep these appointments so that doctors can detect any issues early on when they are usually the easiest to cure.

Exercising post-surgery

While valve replacement gets intended to increase blood flow and improve heart health, it is a muscle that requires exercising to remain strong. Each case is different, and you get asked to limit your activities even after you have recovered. Still, you usually get advised to start an exercise programme to strengthen your heart. Consider the following workout routines:

• Walking
• Swimming
• Biking

Heart conditioning programmes are available at many gyms. Look for one linked with reputable medical organisations and has well-trained teachers who have experience working with people recuperating from heart surgery. However, before you begin, talk to your doctor about your possibilities so that they can review your selection.