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Diagnosis: Pulmonary Regurgitation, Tricuspid Regurgitation

Member Since: January 23, 2023

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David Carriker posted an update

2 years ago (June 5, 2023)

So far, great news is that my heart is doing well. They repaired my custom valve and my pulmonary valve was replaced. Have had no afib. Unfortunately, I'm having a hard time getting my lungs to improve. I'm also having a hard time coming off pain meds. I still need... Read more.

😂 🥰 Rose Madura and Klara ÄœiäIä‡ reacted to this

Rose Madura

David, you just had a major surgery. Please listen to your body. Slow and steady wins this race. Continue to use your spirometer and any progress is good progress. Are your lungs better today than last week? Regarding pain, you need to stay ahead of the pain. It may be... Read more.

Stephen Morris

I was sort of the opposite...I didn't take the pain medication as I knew how addictive they can be and honestly, when I took them I didn't notice any difference in the pain. But yes..it hurts like hell. I think I was close to a year where I didn't have... Read more.

David Carriker posted an update

2 years ago (June 3, 2023)

Memory question: What number could you blow up to when using the Incentive Spirometer on your first few days home after surgery?

Rose Madura

I don't remember. LOL ðŸ¤£

Richard Munson

When you blow the ball out the top you are healed.

Marie Myers

I donâ€™t remember the numbers, but I wasnâ€™t going to win any awards for my deep breathsâ€¦

Deena Z

I am with Marie.ðŸ˜‚

Rita Savelis

Numbers don't matter. Keep blowing.

Janelle Hurst

Not sure but I got thrush right after discharge and I was so grossed out having to reuse my incentive spirometer.

David Carriker posted an update

2 years ago (May 30, 2023)

This is day 5 now. I finally had my first bowel movement a day and a half ago. That made me feel so much better to get that part done. My stomach had been hurting that night. The last couple days the only issue I'm having is food is not... Read more.

Rose Madura

Yes, my heart rate was high and when it got too high, I'd go into Afib. It's a real issue for some for the first six weeks or so. Just listen to your body and take vitals regularly. My appetite was out of whack for several months. Everything takes time... Read more.

Larry Beck

The only I could eat for at least a week or more after surgery was salmon. The heart rate can be affected by whatever your medications youâ€™re taking. Glad to see you are on the road to recovery.

Ana Brusso

Sorry about your heart rate. Hopefully it will get better when you are home. I will keep you in prayer. ðŸ™â¤ï¸

Rita Savelis

Typically one is prescribed betablockers after heart surgery to slow the heart rate down and give one's heart a break after what it's been through. I can't imagine one's energy being anything but low in the days/weeks following surgery! I was exhausted. It's so very very early for you. Let... Read more.

Richard Munson

Thank goodness, 5 days is a long time. I was similar. Think anesthesia is a factor. As we used to say â€œ nice move, bowels.

Susan Lynn

David - You look marvelous! Don't worry about the elevated heart rate - they wouldn't release you if there was the slightest concern. As Rita said, they may prescribe a beta blocker that will bring that number down. As far as eating goes, eat whatever you like - I only... Read more.

Klara ÄœiäIä‡

I also had higher heart rate right after surgery, it is completely normal and expected, due to lots of reasons... With time it will go down, in some sooner, in some later. Loss or changes in appetite are also part of the journey. It will come back soon. Just take... Read more.