Headache

Does anyone else have a headache after device is interrogated? If so, why does this happen?

5 Comments

Yeah, I got them too

by Theknotguy - 2015-11-20 03:11:01

Yeah, I got them too. In fact, got one during last checkup this Monday. I think it's a result of the testing of the PM by the tech.

From the time I got the PM to May of 2014 the techs would hook me up then start doing testing. They'd run the atrial part up real fast, then run up the ventrical test real fast too. I'd go into afib within 24 hours of testing. EP, of course, said testing had nothing to do with afib session. (We're going to have a further discussion on that later.) Anyway... Talked to tech and asked if they could change testing a little bit. He said, yeah, sure.

The tech runs the atrial side up about 5 BPM with a pause between each increase. He keeps at it until he gets the number he wants.

Then the tech runs up the ventrical slowly. I can feel it when it kicks in. (I'm one of those rare people who can feel their afib.) Tech keeps upping the numbers until he gets the results he needs. At which time my headache will start.

Testing session is ended but I usually walk out of the office with a thumping headache. A small price to pay for making sure PM is working OK.

Discussions with the tech are that he has to do the testing as due diligence. So he can't skip a test just because I don't like it. And, of course, my EP says it doesn't happen. Ah well. Sometimes you're on the leading edge and others the bleeding edge.

I have found knowing what causes it helps lessen the intensity of the headache(s). I try to make sure I hydrate a little more before going in to be tested. Also having a sympathetic tech who is willing to work with you helps too. Post testing, aspirin or tylenol might help too but my headaches usually go away quickly so I don't need either.

I'm working to identify which causes the headaches. Didn't really think about it until you asked as I was more concerned with going into an afib session. Since I'm being tested every six months, it's taken a year to figure some of this out. Then it will be another year before I get some more answers. But, hey, if I'm still alive in the meantime, who's to complain.

Hope this answers your question. Hope everything else is going well for you.


Say "no" to these headaches

by oldearthworm - 2015-11-20 08:11:35

They must not be , we have enuff pain as it is ..The techs can work with us better .. But, I have never had a headache over any of this .. maybe I am just insensitive .. I think that during testing , if one's pulse is creased too much ..that extra blood goes someplace .. and the head is open to this "intrusion" ..

I get nauseous

by valley01 - 2015-11-20 09:11:51

I get a slight headache but more nauseous than anything. I do normally get motion sickness very easily so I think this is somehow related even though I'm kicked back in a Lazy-Boy chair.

Thanks

by jennk - 2015-11-20 11:11:38

It does help to know that I am not the only one this happens to when interrogated. Now I know I am not imagining it. Sorry others are dealing with it to. That being said, I am glad I am able to do all that I am able to do. It is a small price to pay, but as I get closer to battery end I have to go much more often. Thanks, all.

similar

by revelation - 2015-11-25 12:11:57

I get light headed and feel bad for a few days after I have mine interrogated. It takes two or three days to get over it.

You know you're wired when...

You run like the bionic woman.

Member Quotes

The experience of having a couple of lengths of wire fed into your heart muscle and an electronic 'box' tucked under the skin is not an insignificant event, but you will survive.