Surgical complications, in general
For any of the following symptoms, contact the cardiologist or primary care provider.
- Increased swelling, redness, or tenderness around the incision site(s).
- A change in color around the incision site(s), such as blue, brown, grey/green, or black.
- Bleeding from the incision site(s).
- Increased oozing of fluid from the incision site(s), especially if discolored or smelly.
- New or worsened pain around the incision site(s), especially if not relieved with medication.
- Altered toileting habits (especially if difficult or unable to pee or poop).
- Swelling of the feet, ankles, and/or lower legs.
- Fever*, or even below normal body temperature.
*Note that half of older adults aged 55 and over do not mount a fever response. (Fever is taken to mean > 100.4F/38C on 2 consecutive days or > 102.2F/39C on any one day.)
Post-CABG complications
For any of the following symptoms, contact the cardiologist or primary care provider.
- Rapid heart rate or heart palpitations.
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- Blood in urine or stool.
- Grinding/clicking sensation in the chest.
- Persistent fever or below normal body temperature that doesn't respond to medication.
- Marked swelling of the feet, ankles, and/or lower legs.
- Persistent shortness of breath during, or for a long time after approved activities.
- A feeling of fullness in the chest.
Call for an ambulance (9-1-1)
- Shortness of breath that does not go away with rest.
- Chest pain that is not from the incision.
- Difficulty breathing (labored or can't seem to catch it).
- Feeling dizzy or lightheaded at rest.
- Fainting or loss of consciousness.
- Severe headache.
- Drooping of the face or weakness on one side of the body.
- Slurred or distorted speech.
- Sudden onset of confusion or delirium.
- Shaking chills, especially with an increase or decrease in temperature.
- Rapid heart rate causing great discomfort.
