Have you had heart surgery while living with lupus?
While the search results don't include specific experiences from members who've had heart surgery, they do mention that surgery in general requires special considerations when you have lupus.
If you're facing heart surgery, here are some important things to know:
Before Show Full Answer
Have you had heart surgery while living with lupus?
While the search results don't include specific experiences from members who've had heart surgery, they do mention that surgery in general requires special considerations when you have lupus.
If you're facing heart surgery, here are some important things to know:
Before Surgery:
- Your rheumatologist may need to adjust your lupus medications, especially corticosteroids and immunosuppressants
- Make sure your surgical team knows about your lupus and all medications you're taking
- If you're experiencing a lupus flare, it's best to wait until it's controlled before having surgery
Additional Risks to Discuss:
- Lupus increases the risk of antiphospholipid syndrome, which can cause blood clots
- Surgery itself can potentially trigger a lupus flare
- Your rheumatologist can help create a plan to manage these risks
After Surgery:
- Proper postoperative care is crucial for a smooth recovery
- Watch for signs of a lupus flare and stay in close contact with your healthcare team
It's essential to have open communication between your rheumatologist, surgeon, and anesthesiologist to ensure the safest possible outcome.
April 6