Side effects of heart bypass surgery

After you have been discharged from hospital, you may experience some side effects as a result of the operation. These can include:

  • loss of appetite
  • Constipation
  • swelling or pins and needles where the blood vessel graft was removed
  • muscle painor back pain
  • tiredness and difficulty sleeping
  • feelingupsetand having mood swings

It's natural to feel a bit low after having bypass surgery. You'll experience good and bad days, but it's important to remember your recovery will take weeks rather than days.

Side effects tend to disappear within four to six weeks of the operation. A full recovery may take a few months or longer, depending on your overall health before the procedure.

If you would like some extra support and advice while you recover, speak with your GP or contact the British Heart Foundation, who can provide you with details of local heart support groups .

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 4 Mar 2019