After endovascular aortic aneurysm repair: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
- You have severe trouble breathing.
- You have sudden chest pain and shortness of breath, or you cough up blood or foamy, pink mucus.
- You have a lump that is getting bigger under your skin where the incisions were made in your groin.
- You have severe pain in your belly.
- You have chest pain or pressure. This may occur with:
- Sweating.
- Shortness of breath.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Pain that spreads from the chest to the neck, jaw, or one or both shoulders or arms.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness.
- A fast or uneven pulse.
After calling 911, chew 1 adult-strength or 2 to 4 low-dose aspirin. Wait for an ambulance. Do not try to drive yourself.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have new or increased shortness of breath.
- You are dizzy or lightheaded, or you feel like you may faint.
- You are sick to your stomach or cannot keep fluids down.
- You have pain that does not get better after you take pain medicine.
- You have a fever over 100°F.
- You have loose stitches, or one of your incisions comes open.
- Bright red blood has soaked through the bandage over your incisions.
- You have signs of infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
- Red streaks leading from the incisions.
- Pus draining from the incisions.
- Swollen lymph nodes in your neck, armpits, or groin.
- A fever.
- You have signs of a blood clot, such as:
- Pain in your calf, back of the knee, thigh, or groin.
- Redness and swelling in your leg or groin.
Watch closely for any changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You have sudden weight gain, such as 3 pounds or more in 2 to 3 days.
- You have increased swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet.