28/11/2025
Experiencing shortness of breath (breathlessness) after heart surgery is common and expected as your lungs and heart need time to recover and regain strength.
But ignoring certain warning signs can be dangerous and may indicate complications such as fluid buildup around the lungs or heart, infection, or heart failure.
🔍 Why Does Breathlessness Happen After Surgery?
After major heart surgery, your body may experience:
Weak respiratory muscles due to anesthesia & bed rest
Temporary lung stiffness or reduced lung capacity
Fluid accumulation around lungs (pleural effusion)
Swelling around the heart (pericardial effusion)
Post-surgery pain limiting deep breathing
These conditions usually improve gradually with breathing exercises, physiotherapy, and walking.
Seek urgent medical help if you notice:
❗ Sudden or worsening breathlessness
❗ Breathing difficulty even while resting
❗ Persistent cough with pink or frothy sputum
❗ Chest tightness or rapid heartbeat
❗ Swelling in feet or abdomen
❗ Fever or chills (possible infection)
💡 How to Improve Breathing After Surgery
✔ Use incentive spirometer regularly
✔ Practice deep breathing & coughing exercises
✔ Walk daily as instructed
✔ Sleep with your head elevated
✔ Take medications on time
✔ Avoid smoking & dusty environments
Book an appointment now!
📞 +91 8237337784
🌐 www.drashishdolas.com
📧 heartbreastcare@gmail.com
(Heart Specialist, Cardiac Surgeon, Best Heart Surgeon in Pune, Cardiovascular disease, Vascular age, Blood vessels, Heart attack, Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery, Pediatric heart surgery, Coronary Artery Disease, Heart & Breast Care Clinic, Cardiac arrest, Dr. Ashish Dolas)
