Recovering from open heart bypass surgery involves a lot of relaxing and recuperating initially, but when it's finally time to get back into the swing of things, it's wise not to rush. This invasive surgery involves opening up the chest, which can put a strain on your entire body. Before you begin exercising after open heart bypass surgery, there are some things to take into consideration.
When to Start
The first six to eight weeks after the surgery, you will be instructed to take it easy and keep physical activity to a bare minimum, involving little more than some simple household chores -- and only when you feel like you can. Don't try to lift anything over 5 lbs. during this time. The sternum needs this time to heal up, and any undue strain might prolong your recovery. After this time, you can speak with your doctor about exercise. Your doctor can take into consideration all factors and give you sound advice on how much and how often you should exercise.
Start Off Slowly
Taking daily walks is an easy way to start that won't strain your body too much. Keep the first few walks short to see how much you can take. Don't get too far from home so that you have a long way back if fatigue happens to set in. Try walking around the block at a slow leisurely pace and don't rush it. Walk with a friend or relative in case you should need assistance. A daily 30-minute walk five times a week is optimal, but don't push yourself if you feel too tired. Start off walking as much as you can handle comfortably and work up to 30 minutes.
Other Forms of Exercise
Avoid anything strenuous on your body or your heart, such as jogging or running or any sports that involve a lot of movement. In conjunction with a walking routine, you can work on strengthening exercises for your body. Sit in a chair and lift one leg, hold it and slowly lower it. Do this with both legs one at a time. You can do a similar exercise with your arms by raising one arm straight up and holding it before slowly lowering it and repeating on the other side. Your doctor can advise you on other exercises that might be beneficial.
Fatigue and Other Things to Watch Out For
Fatigue is common after open heart bypass surgery. If you begin to experience fatigue during exercising, listen to your body and stop immediately. Take frequent naps as often as you feel you need them and base your exercise around your body's schedule. If at any time you begin to feel lightheaded, dizzy, nauseous or have pain in the chest or tingling anywhere in the body, immediately stop what you are doing and contact your doctor.
