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What Causes Severe Shortness Of Breath Post Triple Bypass Surgery?

Posted on Wed, 11 Feb 2015

Question: I am a 73 year old female. I had unexpected triple by-pass surgery 12/11/2014. My only complaints prior to cardiac XXXXXXX was shortness of breath and tiring very easily. I was d.c.'d by surgeon 1/20/2015, at that time I c/o shortness of breath. My shortness of breath is worse than I had before surgery. He said not to worry that I would get better. In 10/12 had right knee replacement, at that time I ended up in ICU four days post-op. Oxygen level dropped dangerously. Before this most recent surgery I told everybody who would listen to me what had happened. Sure enough the same thing happened again.

Answered by Dr. Benard Shehu (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Advise to repeat heart echo...

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX

I am sorry for the situation you are in.
To give an exact answer, I want to have the reports of your cardiac echo. Can you please send it?

It is important to evaluate the cardiac damages and as a consequence heart function. If heart damage were at the point of reduced heart function, there are high chances to get the symptoms back.

If the echo was not showing such damages, I advise to repeat cardiac echo and wait for another 3 months, because it will need time (up to 6 months) after the intervention to get back well.

So, by comparing both the echo results (pre and post operation); we can evaluate your heart function better and can predict the prognosis.

Wish you health!
Dr.Benard

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Benard Shehu (17 hours later)

At the time of the cardiac XXXXXXX I was told by both the vascular surgeon and the cardiologist that my heart was healthy, that I needed the by-pass surgery before anything happened to my heart. If I understand your reply correctly I believe I can expect my recovery could take up to six months is this correct? The other thing that I didn't mention that for the last 7 - 10 days my oxygen level has always been above 93.

Bottom line do I have the right to hope my shortness of breath may subside and I will breathe normally?

Answered by Dr. Benard Shehu (8 hours later)

Brief Answer:
I recommend to repeat Echo, if normal you will breath normal again...

Detailed Answer:
Hi back,

Yes you are right, you should weight up to sixth month for a complete recovery. I strongly suggest to repeat cardiac Echo now. If it's normal than you will be able to breath normal again.

Wish you health!
Dr. Benard

Note: click here to Consult a cardiac surgeon online. to know the best treatment option for your heart-related issues

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar