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Even though you have been discharged from the hospital, you still need to visit your doctor regularly for follow-up visits. He or she will monitor your condition, discuss any limitations on activities or diet, and prescribe medicines. Be sure you let your doctor know about any additional medicines (such as nonprescription painkillers) that you may take, as these medicines may interact with the ones your doctor has already prescribed.

The following are some considerations your doctor may discuss with you.

• Medicines. When blood comes into contact with a foreign object, such as an artificial valve, its initial response is to form clots, which can lead to stroke. After your surgery, you will need to take anticoagulants (medicine that keeps your blood from clotting). If you have a mechanical heart valve (made from plastic, metal, or cloth, instead of from animal or human tissue), you will need to take anticoagulants for the rest of your life, as your blood may continually clot in response to the materials in your artificial heart valve. If you have a biological heart valve (made from animal or human tissue), you may need to take anticoagulants for at least the first few weeks after surgery.
• Diet during recovery. In order to alleviate constipation caused by painkillers, you should eat a diet rich in fruit and fiber. In general, while your body heals, you should eat a diet rich in vitamins and nutrients.
• Physical activity/exercise. Your doctor will recommend that you follow a routine of regular exercise. To help you develop such a routine, you may need to work with a physical therapist or go to a cardiac rehabilitation program, where trained professionals will help you develop a regimen that does not harm you while giving you the minimum workout that you need. Keep in mind that exercise at this time does not need to be strenuous. Even a regular walking routine can be very helpful. You should gradually increase the amount and intensity of any physical activity you do, taking care not to strain yourself. Also, try to take 10 to 20 deep breaths every 2 to 4 hours while you are awake, as this will help keep your lungs clear.
• Sleep. It is important to establish a normal sleeping pattern. Try to avoid naps and do not take sleeping pills unless it is absolutely necessary.
• Hygiene. You need to wash your surgical incisions daily with soap and water, which you can do while you shower. Immediately report to your doctor any signs of infection, such as swelling or redness.
• Smoking. It is very important that you do not smoke while you are recovering from heart surgery. If you think you will have difficulty with this, ask your doctor for information on smoking cessation programs.