I am 80 years old and have had 3 stents installed-no heart attack. My only other hospital problem has been getting a new shoulder-good health otherwise.
Day 1 & 2: in hospital
In the following days cited. I have not taken any pain meds yet
Day 3: Getting home no problem-just followed instructions-now that the hip was done tryng to understand how to organize the house needed changes. Which chair? How many pillows? What to use to get up out of chair? Where to sleep? These would all change as the days went by. I found out what better or worse means. My wife, always my hero, was awesome.
I did the basic therapy for the day and I felt fine. I am walking fine.
That night we got me into our bed which we thought would work well because it is like a hospital bed. The head and foot can be adjusted. No good. (I simply could not use the leg wedge provided in the hospital. It did not work in the hospital as I wound up in the chair every night.) So we decided to use the couch which would keep me on my back. We put some barriers next to the couch. I slept for three hours and had to get up. Yes, she was there to help. Anyway it was somewhat of a fitful night.
Day 4:Thanksgiving-The therapist showed up and we went through some extra exercises. I again felt fine.
Sleeping was about the same. I was sleeping during the day sitting up. I used an airplane pillow. I am still feeling only discomfort-not pain. Eating normal. No problem walking.
Day 5: My leg is swelled-the hip and calf about 11/2 / 2 inches larger. We were concerned because no where were we told to expect swelling. So we called the VNA visiting nurse association.A nurse was dispatched. We began icing and raising the leg.. In the meantime I looked on line and found this site which affirmed that some people had swelling-it was a relief. The nurse affirmed it was onl swelling and not a blood clot. Sleeping improved but still somewhat fitful
Day 6: Therapist shows up and we do some exercises and he also affirms swelling is just trauma.
Sleeping still fitful.Walking good. Struggling with swelling.
Day 7: Sunday Walking well. Icing leg a lot-keeping elevated as much as possible. Doing exercises.
Struggling with swelling.
Day 8: Therapist show and we do our workout-helpful with ideas and knowledgeable about other folks problems. Struggling with swelling. Sleeping a little better but still getting up a few times at night. Sleeping during the day a lot.
Day 9: Therapist shows. Walking getting better-went outside for a walk. Still no real pain just limping along.
While I still got up two times I slept much better-a good 8 hours. Still struggling with swelling.
I have decided to do this chronologue because It might help. I will be glad to answer specific questions. I will do a complete update every few days. Good luck.