Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

[Jaelle]

My dad had open heart surgery three years ago.  He has become a very angry, irritable man who we no longer recognize.  Have others seen this happen?  Is there a possibility this could be from PTSD?

[Momto3]

You're welcome. I know how difficult it is to deal with something so stressful.  I hope that your Dad soon realizes what is at stake.

Take care

[Jaelle]

Thank you for the info.  Several of us have tried to talk to him about the negative behaviors.  He just does't see it.  I think if I can give him info to read about it then he might be more willing to do something.  He's on the verge of losing his family.  That might be the only thing that might wake him up.  Again, thank you.

[Momto3]

Hi Jaelle,

It is not uncommon for patients who have undergone major heart surgery to experience some change in personality.  I suppose it's a result of a lot of things: 1) realization about a significant heart problem, 2) being on bypass for some time, 3) the medications, 4) a fear of "living" and 5) frustration that new limitations may exist.

Has your Dad discussed his anger with his physician?  It's possible he is not even aware of the change (other than hearing about it from others).  If your Dad has not talked with his doctor, ask him if he would mind if another family member spoke with the doctor.....If you think he will be upset over that, take it very slowly.  Explain that you are concerned and you love him very much.  Tell him you want to see him happy and that it saddens you to see him so frustrated.