SWEDISHAMERICAN HOSPITAL: Dr. Nesher Asner has been a physician for decades, but he recently discovered what surgery is like from a patient perspective

By Press release submission

Mar 7, 2020

SwedishAmerican Hospital issued the following announcement on Feb. 29.

Dr. Nesher Asner has been a physician for decades, but he recently discovered what surgery is like from a patient perspective.

A neurosurgeon for our Neuro and Headache Center, Dr. Asner underwent triple bi-pass surgery last fall. He said the experience has been eye-opening and one that he hopes others can learn from.

“My advice would be you shouldn’t try and be a tough guy, because taking care of yourself is not a selfish thing to do,” said Dr. Asner, who has been employed by Swedes since 2008 following 15 years of working with us as an independent physician.

At age 59, Dr. Asner was walking up four floors of stairs to his office one day last September when he began to feel chest pain.

“I rested and thought I was better,” Dr. Asner said. “Like an idiot, I didn’t go see anyone that day. I just thought ‘I’m a healthy guy. I don’t need to see anyone.’ But I did call my doctor and made an appointment for that next week. My wife went with me, and while I was sitting there my doctor asked me if I was still feeling some pain, and I said ‘You know what, I am.’ So he sent me immediately to the ER for some testing, and what they found was I had some rather severe blockages in my arteries.

“It was not what I was expecting at all.” Dr. Asner went through successful surgery and rehab and just recently returned to work for us. A life-long swimmer, Dr. Asner has added more walking and visits our cardiac rehab department three times a week.

He said the lessons he’s learned along the way have been life-changing. “I’ve learned that you can eat much healthier and still enjoy food,” Dr. Asner said. “I’m eating a lot more fruits and salads and less red meat now. Also, making time for regular physical exercise is so important. I’ve learned that it isn’t something that takes time away from your family or your work. It’s actually helping to make sure you continue to be there for your family and work.” #HeartMonth

Original source can be found here.