After open heart surgery, the recovery period can be long and painful. Many recovering patients will endure much of this period at home, and some will not have friends or relatives to help out. Patients must endure the pain associated with the surgery while paying close attention to their health. Recovering heart surgery patients may have to remember to take many different medications each day. They must be alert, and follow the medication schedules provided by their physicians.

By the time you are discharged from the hospital, there is the possibility that you will experience varying degrees of pain.

After the heart surgery, some patients complain about pain in the shoulder areas or in the chest. Depending on the type of surgery, the pain may be severe. The pain is usually due to muscle or bone ache. Prior to release from the hospital, you will probably have a long conversation with your doctor about pain management. They will give you a good idea of when the pain is acceptable and when you should immediately return to the hospital. Always stay in contact with your physician about your pain, and if you are unable to bear it then you may need to visit the emergency room.

Recovering heart surgery patients must follow proper pain management strategies in order to fully recover from the surgery. Besides, it will also help you lead a comfortable life during your recovery from heart surgery. Throughout your recovery, you may at times experience pain, burning sensation or even pressure in the chest. Moreover, you will also encounter pain when the chest tubes are removed and you begin to move around or start walking.

When you speak with your doctor, tell them if you are feeling any sort of pain or discomfort. In order to minimize your pain level, the doctor must know the level of pain you are experiencing. That's why they may ask you to rate your pain on a scale of 0 to 10. For instance, a rating of 0 means no pain at all, whereas a rating of 10 implies an extreme amount of pain.

There are various pain medication guidelines that a patient must follow after surgery while he/she is at home. In order to recover fast and in a healthier way, follow the instructions imprinted on your prescribed medications in accordance with your doctor's instructions. Some of these instructions typically include suggestions for your diet. Some after surgery medications require that you monitor your diet closely, so be sure to speak with your doctor and follow any advice they may give you.

Also, you may find these tips helpful :

• If you are troubled with constipation then drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water per day.
• Eat a balanced diet that includes green leafy vegetables and fruits.

Some commonly prescribed pain management medications include:

Morphine and Fentanyl: Both medications are used to reduce severe pain following major surgery. But they have certain side-effects like severe dizziness and at times can lead to constipation, among other problems. Your doctor will closely monitor you while you are on these medications to prevent any potential addiction. These medications do carry the risk of addiction, and should only be prescribed by a licensed physician and dispensed by a licensed pharmacist.

Tylenol 3, Codeine, Feverall: Are helpful in controlling mild to moderate pain. It is always recommended to take their dosage according to the prescription as over-dosage can cause liver problems. Many people are allergic to certain pain medications, so doctors have many different options to choose from. They each have their own benefits and drawbacks. Your doctor and pharmacist will give you detailed information on any drugs they prescribe for you. Make sure you ask any questions you have.

Ibuprofen, naproxen sodium (Aleve), rofecoxib (Vioxx): They help in reducing swelling and controlling severe pain associated with swelling. But their consumption too can lead to an upset stomach or other problems.

There are certain strategies that one needs to adopt while taking pain-relief medications:

• Try to remember both the generic name as well as brand names of the medication, or keep a list with you.
• Do follow the prescribed dosage schedules and take the doses appropriately and on time.
• Always verify the expiration date of medication you are taking.
• Store all your medications away from direct heat and sunlight.

By following the above tips, and knowing factual information about the pain medications you are prescribed, you will be able to effectively manage your pain during your post operative heart surgery recovery.