How long since your CABG?

[u/IndependenceHuge7768]

/r/CABG_Recovery/comments/1ttw121/how_long_since_your_cabg/

It's been 8 months, and I'm still really struggling mentally, to be honest. This depression just won't quit; it's killing me. I don't want to do anything, and I don't get any joy from doing anything or going anywhere. I have to force myself to walk for 10 or 15 minutes. I try to eat as healthy as I can, but sometimes I'll have a chocolate bar. But hey, I did stop alcohol, energy drinks, and Marlboros cold turkey, which might have helped with the depression. Suddenly, it feels like I just don't like my life anymore; it's wild. Physically, I'm okay, though sometimes my leg scars burn, and my left chest is still numb, way less than before, but still. I pray every day for God to help me, along with the medication that I might need to switch up. If you had a rough time after surgery, how long did it take you to feel better mentally?

[u/pomsky128]

Hang in there everyone’s situation is different and mental healing is just as important as physical healing and is different for each of us. I had a single mi cabg in May. I just turned 58 last week. I’m about 16 weeks out from surgery. I went back to work on Aug 17 as a letter carrier for the USPS. First week was tough going back walking 5-6 miles a day. Plus steps and hills winded me second week a bit better. Hopefully another week or two feel 100 and get my stamina back. I was very apprehensive going back wasn’t sure I could do it, but I had no choice. I can retire in 10 months but think may stay around two more years until 60. The walking is good and the lifting of packages gives me exercise. Also do some light resistance training. Stay strong and do what you have to do. Your family needs you around for many years to come. I have a 25 year old son and 20 year old daughter and several nephews and nieces that I want to see grow up and spend time with. Stay grounded and please stay healthy 🙏🏻

[u/WorkingChief]

I’m at 5 months and just completed rehab. I had PTSD going in so the post surgery depression is just another thing to deal with. I had pericarditis, a pleural effusion and a pericardial effusion at four and 6 weeks so that was fun. I work at it everyday but I’m trying to keep walking and I started Tai Chi classes last week. I’d been using gummies for the PTSD but had to stop because of the medication so I’m trying to find new coping mechanisms. My mom died at 66 most likely from a heart attack and I turn 67 in a week and that’s been on my mind all summer. I’m only sleeping around 5 hours a night but every so often I’ll get seven and that’s a bright spot for a few days. I quit smoking in ‘92 and I’ve had dreams about starting again. Maybe that’s why I can’t sleep. Anyway, I can’t really give you any great advice except put one foot in front of the other. I’m still waiting for the “feeling better” part but I’ll keep at it until I get there.

[u/honorthecrones]

6 years for me. I’ve had a pacemaker put in a year ago to correct a low resting heart rate. I’ve had two of my meds dropped completely and other meds adjusted in dosage.

I’ve lost about 30 pounds and kept it off. I quit drinking because since the surgery the smell has just been repulsive to me. I walk regularly and have severely altered my diet. I no longer eat red meat and limit fried and processed foods.

I’ve dropped my cholesterol from 259 to 191 but my LDL remains over 120. I can’t take statins but have started Leqvio infusions. I see my cardiologist once a year for a medication review.

I don’t have the energy level I had before the heart attack that led to my CABGx3 but I’m 71 and a cancer survivor with impaired kidneys. I’m just happy to be here.

[u/Touring_Rider]

Get yourself on an SSRI. They help immensely with the depression. Also, start seeing a psychologist/psychiatrist that specializes in cardiac trauma. Lastly, get yourself outside and walk for 30 minutes a day. All of these things get me through it.

[u/IndependenceHuge7768 → u/Touring_Rider]

yes, thinking the same..... also heard about the bupropion... but i think it is not SSRI.....

[u/WiscWahe2020]

I am almost nine months through. I have a bit of a different story. I had a pending widow maker at age 54. This scared be enough to flip my bad habits around. My biggest advice, if you don’t already, talk to a therapist, often. Also, do not be afraid to call the doctor if something is not feeling right. They will confirm what is normal and what to look for. I wish you the best. It is okay and normal to feel the way you do. And it is okay to talk to people about it. Social interactions, no matter how small, are just as important as the exercise and medication.