Potential Complications of Heart Transplants

Potential Complications

Complications can occur after any surgery, but special complications are associated with transplantation. Your medical team has years of experience in recognizing complications and we are aware of most things that can happen. We know how to prevent complications and how to treat them if they occur. Remember that your role in monitoring your health, following a healthy lifestyle and taking your medication is critical. Some potential complications after transplant include:

DO NOT SMOKE. Smoking contributes significantly to the development of heart and lung disease in the general population.

Since you are taking immunosuppressive medications, your lungs are already at risk for developing lung infections, and smoking will add to the risk. Smoking directly damages the delicate lung tissue and may lead to mucous build up, coughing, breathing problems, and lung infection.

If you need assistance in locating a program to help you stop smoking, ask your physician or nurse. The social workers also have excellent behavior modification books available for your use.