Emergency No: 08062136599
by BMB | Published on 28/05/2021
With an LVAD device implanted inside your heart, life is definitely not going to be the same as before. Referred to patients who have reached end-stage heart failure, LVAD, or left ventricular assist device, is a small pump that is surgically implanted in a patient's heart to assist the left ventricle in carrying out its function of pumping blood. It is a battery-operated device that acts as a bridge to transplant. LVAD surgery is performed at all the leading hospitals. The procedure is highly recommended by doctors due to its high success rate.
So, if you have been recommended to go for LVAD, here are something that you definitely need to note, before the procedure.
You will be required to take medication even after the procedure - If you think that getting an LVAD implant means that you can go on without any medication, you might be wrong. Getting the implant does not mean that you do not require any medication. Even after the procedure, you might be required to take medications that include diuretics, blood pressure medication, etc. The dosage of these varies from one person to another and will be gradually increased or decreased depending on your overall prognosis. Your overall clinical assessment also plays a major role in determining what medications you need. To ensure optimal support, the experts from the best heart hospital in Kolkata will closely monitor your progress.
You will have to make changes in your daily routine - Your definition of a normal life is going to change after LVAD surgery. No doubt your life will be better, but there are many new changes that you will have to adapt to. For instance, you will have to get used to having a device connected to your body at all times. You will also need to make changes in your daily activities and routines. With recent advancements, new and better devices are coming forth, yet getting used to having them inside of you may take time. You may also need to make some changes in your sleeping position and monitor the surgical site on a regular basis to bring down the risks of infection.
You will have to adapt to new changes - After the procedure, you may notice a gradual improvement. You will not become tired easily and may not fall short of breath as often as before. Patients experiencing heart failure are recommended to lower their fluid intake. After LVAD placement, you need to get back to your regular fluid intake level. Especially during the hot weather season, it is very important to keep yourself well hydrated as a deficiency of fluids in your body can lead to temporary dizziness.
You will require a new exercise routine - Indulging in physical activities is not only good for your heart but your body as a whole. Getting an LVAD implant does not mean that you need to refrain from indulging in physical activities. In fact, physical activities are highly recommended to bring you and your muscles back to shape. It is quite normal to feel tired initially, and you may even be restricted from indulging in certain activities like swimming or contact sports. However, you can always go for a walk or try yoga. Try to indulge in mild-to-moderate exercises and don't push yourself beyond certain limits. Consult your doctor to know what kind of activities are good for you.
