It has come to light that TV legend Dick Clark died of a heart attack just one day after undergoing prostate surgery. This piece of health news underscores the inherent risks we have anytime we head under the knife.
Clark sought surgery for a painful condition called “acute urinary retention” that leaves one unable to urinate effectively. Overall, experts call it a very safe operation to undergo.
Officially, Clark died of a heart attack and coronary artery disease. This comes about seven years after suffering a stroke. He also had type 2 diabetes. The main concern is whether someone with heart issues can safely go through a surgery, regardless of how safe it is. For the heart, anesthesia can be tough and, after surgery, blood pressure can fluctuate.
Doctors haven’t unearthed the reason why Clark had a heart attack one day after surgery. But we certainly know that surgery is a stressful event, and Doctors Health Press is committed to revealing natural alternatives that we can explore and see if they work — before heading to the surgeon’s table.
Here are some tips on making surgery safe:
1. Learn as much as you can. Meet your surgeons and ask all the questions you want. That includes the anesthesiologists as well — bring up any concerns you have.
2. There may be pain, pressure, muscle soreness, and even throat discomfort afterward. Ask about pain medicine, and look into meditation, massage or hot-cold therapy at home. It could cut the risk of complications and speed healing.
3. Monitor your symptoms to reduce risk of infection: fever; chills; weakness; increased pain; swelling; redness; bleeding; and wound discharge.
4. Understand blood clots, for which some surgeries raise the risk . Talk to your doctor, particularly if you are overweight, smoke, or have a chronic health condition.
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5. Make things known. Ensure your surgeons know about all health issues you have, including those of your family members. Also make sure they know all drugs and natural supplements you are taking, as there can be adverse effects.
6. If you may need a blood transfusion during surgery, ask to donate your own blood beforehand so it can be used.
7. Always seek a second opinion about the notion of surgery. Is it absolutely needed? Most importantly: how safe is it for you?
8. After surgery, arrange for someone to be at home to help you. And ensure there is a lot of healthy food stocked up in your fridge and pantry.
9. Wear loose-fitting clothing after surgery, as dressing might be a challenge.
10. Do as much as you can before surgery to prepare yourself, physically and mentally. Those who are not stressed and in decent shape going in have the best chances for safe surgery and good recovery. Even if you only have two weeks, use those two weeks to as a body tune-up. Hint, hint: diet and exercise.