Mitral valve replacement recovery

[sonia1777]

I recently had mitral valve replacement. I'm 33yrs old and I'm finding it hard to make it more than 3-4 min at .8 miles per hour on the treadmill before I start getting winded and feel like I can't continue.  I am almost 2 weeks out from surgery, is this normal and how do I progress faster. Thanks Sonia

[kenkeith]

Before you leave the hospital after heart surgery, you should have been given instructions on how to care for yourself during the first phase of recovery, which lasts about six to eight weeks.

For the first six to eight weeks should be:
•Gradually increase your activity. You may do light household chores, but do not stand in one place longer than 15 minutes.
•Do not lift objects greater than 20 pounds (your doctor may give you a different number if appropriate). Also, do not push or pull heavy objects.
•It is OK to perform activities above shoulder level, such as reaching for an object or brushing your hair. But, do not hold your arms above shoulder level for a longer period of time.
•You may climb steps unless they have been restricted by your doctor. You may need to rest part of the way if you become tired. Do not climb up and down stairs several times during the day, especially when you first arrive home. It is better to plan activities to go downstairs in the morning and back upstairs when it is time for bed.
•Pace yourself - spread your activities throughout the day. If you become tired, rest and schedule unfinished activities for another time.
•Walk daily. Your doctor or cardiac rehabilitation specialist will give you guidelines for walking when you return home.
•Get a good night’s sleep. If you feel tired, go to bed early. Be careful not to nap too much during the day or you may have difficulty sleeping at night.
•Check with your doctor to confirm activity guidelines.

Recovery after valve surgery may take a long time, depending on how healthy you were before the operation. You will have to rest and limit your activities. Your doctor may want you to begin an exercise program or to join a cardiac rehabilitation program.  

Hope this gives you a perspective what is generally expected from a prior valve operation.  At 33 years old you may have a faster recovery time, but I don't believe experiencing your symptoms after two weeks is unexpected, but you may want to contact your doctor to be safe.
Thanks for your question, and I wish you well going forward.