Erection Pain After Open Heart Surgery

While recovering from an open heart surgery, the patient is encouraged to engage in a low level exercise program to aid in his recovery. Initially one should start walking around several times a day to build endurance safely.

As the patient progresses through the next 4 to 6 weeks, he can gradually increase the exercise time and decrease the frequency of daily walking.

Aerobic exercise is the type of exercise that is recommended to strengthen the heart and the cardiovascular system. Aerobic exercise 3 to 4 times a week for at least 30 minutes can accomplish this. The intensity and the frequency of the aerobic exercise can be modified to ensure safety and benefit during the initial phase of the recovery period.

As far as sexual activity is concerned, there is a lot of pleasurable activity which is not sexual intercourse. The patient can involve in activities that enhances closeness and pleasure such as holding, fondling, and caressing. Since these activities don’t require a lot of energy the patient can safely engage himself during the initial phase of recovery. Such expression of love helps the couple to return slowly to a full sex life with confidence.

Sexual intercourse requires slightly more energy and a waiting period of 1 to 3 weeks is recommended. As the sternum has been cut, one needs to prevent injury to the sternum. Exercise is going to help to strengthen the heart and overall physical condition. As the patient gains confidence and his endurance level improves, he knows when he is ready.

Fear of performance and general depression are two psychological factors that generally reduce sexual interest and capacity. Various medications also may affect sexual drive or function. The physician may be consulted. A change in medication or dosage can help. Patient needs to be relaxed and rested before intercourse. One needs to get over the emotional response in addition to the physical response before attempting sexual intercourse. If the patient experiences pain, the doctor can be consulted.

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Depending on the type of heart surgery, patient has to spend a day or more in the intensive care unit during the initial recovery phase. Subsequently he is moved to another part of the hospital for several days before he is discharged to go home. During the period of his stay in the hospital, his condition is monitored at regular intervals to note the progress of his recovery. His heart rate, blood pressure and vital signs are monitored. Fluids are given to the body through intravenous (IV) needle inserted till such time the patient is ready to drink on his own. Extra oxygen through a face mask is given in case it is required. More..