How to Check Heart Health at Home

Introduction

Heart bypass surgery, also known as coronary artery bypass grafting, is a life-saving procedure that has improved the heart health of millions worldwide. Despite being one of the most commonly performed cardiac surgeries, it remains surrounded by myths and misconceptions.

This blog post aims to debunk some of the common myths about heart bypass surgery and provide accurate, easy-to-understand facts that will help patients and their families make informed decisions.

What is Heart Bypass Surgery (CABG)?

Heart bypass surgery is a medical procedure used to restore normal blood flow to the heart when one or more coronary arteries become blocked. During the procedure, a healthy blood vessel is taken from another part of the body, usually from the leg, arm, or chest and grafted around the blocked artery, creating a new path for blood to reach the heart muscle.

The different types of heart bypass procedures are

Traditional: Involves a larger incision, and the heart is temporarily stopped, and heart-lung machine takes over the function of the heart and lungs.
Off-pump: The heart continues beating during the procedure and does not involve a heart-lung machine.
Minimally invasive: It involves making small incisions between the ribs to access the heart.

Why do we need Heart Bypass Surgery?

Heart bypass surgery is commonly recommended for individuals with severe coronary artery disease, which occurs due to the buildup of fats and cholesterol causing reducing blood flow to the heart muscle.

The other factors that may contribute to the development of coronary artery disease include atherosclerosis, hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, age, and other medical conditions.

Heart bypass surgery reduces the risk of heart attacks and heart failure and improves the quality of life in patients with coronary artery disease. It is also recommended in the following situations:

Blockage in the left main heart artery
Narrowing of the main heart artery
Severe or persistent chest pain
When a previous angioplasty has not worked

10 Common Myths and Facts About Heart Bypass Surgery

Myth 1: Heart Bypass Surgery is Only for the Elderly

Fact: Heart bypass surgery may be more common among older adults, but it is not limited to them. In recent years, an increasing number of younger patients may also need surgery due to the early onset of severe coronary artery disease.

Factors such as diet, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and a sedentary lifestyle may also lead to heart disease at a younger age. The decision to perform bypass surgery is influenced by different factors, including the severity of the disease, the patient’s symptoms, overall health and risk profile.

Myth 2: Heart Bypass Surgery is Always a Last Resort When All the Other Treatments Have Failed

Fact: Heart bypass surgery is one of the treatment options for coronary artery disease and is not always a last resort option. It is often recommended as the most effective treatment for patients with multiple or complex blockages, particularly when angioplasty or medications are unlikely to provide long-term benefits.

Doctors may recommend bypass surgery early in the treatment regimen if it offers better outcomes for heart function, symptom relief, and survival, especially in high-risk patients.

Myth 3: Heart Bypass Surgery is Risky and Often Fatal

Fact: While every surgery carries some level of risk, heart bypass surgery is generally safe and has a high success rate, especially when performed by experienced heart bypass surgeons. Advancements in medical science and the use of the latest technology have significantly reduced the risks associated with heart bypass surgery.

Many patients experience substantial improvements in their health and quality of life after the surgery, making the benefits greater than the potential risks.

Myth 4: Heart Bypass Surgery is a Cure for Heart Disease

Fact: Heart bypass surgery may significantly improve heart function and relieve symptoms, but it may not be a cure for heart disease.

Heart conditions are chronic conditions and often require long-term care to maintain heart health and prevent future issues.

Without making lifestyle changes, including a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing cholesterol and blood pressure, new blockages may still develop. So, the long-term success of the heart bypass surgery depends on the continued monitoring of the heart symptoms and a healthy lifestyle.

Myth 5: You can not have a normal life after heart bypass surgery

Fact: Most patients may return to a normal, active life after heart bypass surgery. The initial 4-6 weeks is important for complete recovery after the surgery. Cardiac rehabilitation after surgery plays an important role in helping patients regain strength by adopting heart-healthy activities.

With proper recovery, regular follow-ups, and a healthy lifestyle, people often resume daily activities, return to work, travel, and even perform physical exercises.

Myth 6: Recovery After a Heart Bypass Surgery is Extremely Painful and Takes Months

Fact: Many patients experience only some discomfort after heart bypass surgery, and modern surgical techniques and pain management have made recovery more manageable.

Doctors use medications and minimally invasive procedures to keep the pain under control. Also, most patients may take 6-8 weeks to completely recover and return to regular activities, depending on their overall health and the type of surgery performed.

Myth 7: Heart Bypass Surgery Eliminates the Need for Lifestyle Changes

Fact: Lifestyle changes are necessary after heart bypass surgery to protect the heart and ensure long-term success. It includes eating a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, managing stress, and controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes.

Without maintaining these changes, the risk of complications remains. So, bypass surgery is effective only when it is coupled with a heart-healthy lifestyle.

Myth 8: Only Men Will Need Heart Bypass Surgery

Fact: Heart disease does not occur only in men, and it is also a leading cause of death in women. Men may be diagnosed earlier or more frequently due to noticeable symptoms.

Women are equally at risk and may experience atypical symptoms and so are sometimes diagnosed later when the disease is more advanced. In such cases, women will also need heart bypass surgery.

The decision to undergo bypass surgery is based on the severity of the condition and the overall health and not gender.

Myth 9: All Heart Blockages Require Heart Bypass Surgery

Fact: Not all heart blockages require heart bypass surgery. The treatment depends on several factors, including the number, location, and severity of the blockages.

Most of the blockages can be cleared using angioplasty with or without using a stent, through medications or lifestyle changes.

Heart bypass surgery is usually recommended when there are multiple or complex blockages, the left main coronary artery is narrowed, symptoms are severe, and other treatments have not been effective.

Myth 10: Heart Bypass Surgery Will Make You Live Longer

Fact: Heart bypass surgery may significantly improve the quality of life and symptoms, including chest pain and shortness of breath. The lifespan after the surgery is influenced by different factors, including the severity of the underlying heart disease, the patient’s overall health, and lifestyle choices.

Maintaining regular follow-ups, taking medications, adhering to the instructions of the healthcare professional, and adopting heart-healthy habits may help increase the chances of living a longer, healthier life.

Why Heart360 Care is the Best Choice for Heart Bypass Surgery?

It is crucial to choose the right healthcare provider to perform the heart bypass surgery for the best possible outcomes. Heart360 Care stands out as a leading choice for heart bypass surgery for different reasons, including:

Experienced and skilled cardiologists, led by Dr. Nikhil
Comprehensive pre- and post-operative care
State-of-the-art facilities and technology
Patient-centered approach
Post-surgery rehabilitation and support
Affordable and accessible care

If you or a loved one is considering a heart bypass surgery, Heart360 Care offers compassionate care and advanced medical technology for a successful outcome. If you have any queries regarding heart bypass surgery, feel free to book a consultation with Heart360 Care for more information!

Conclusion

Heart bypass surgery can be an important procedure offering the chance for a healthier and more active life with proper care, support, and lifestyle adjustments.

With the proper knowledge and understanding of the facts of the procedure, individuals can make decisions about their heart health. However, it is important to seek professional help to know if the heart bypass surgery is the right choice for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Heart Bypass Surgery Painful?

Heart bypass surgery is generally not painful as most patients may be given anaesthesia during the procedure. Many patients report only minimal discomfort or soreness in the chest after the surgery as it is minimally invasive. Doctors may also recommend medications to control pain after the surgery.

Can You Have Heart Bypass Surgery if You Have Other Health Conditions?

Many people with other health conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and kidney disease, may still have a heart bypass surgery. It may complicate the surgery but will not disqualify the patient. Your healthcare professional will evaluate your health and take adequate measures to help manage the surgery with these conditions.

Can Heart Bypass Surgery Make You Weak?

Heart bypass surgery is a major procedure that requires a recovery period, but it does not typically cause permanent weakness. The patient may feel weak or fatigued immediately after the surgery. However, with the right care, physical therapy, and rehabilitation, most patients may regain their strength over time.