To change or not to change

• by Shortcake
• 2012-05-15 09:05:18
• Checkups & Settings
• 1106 views
• 2 comments

That is truly my question today. I am off to the doc today for my first visit since receiving my last pacer. We have discussed turning down my voltage for more battery life. This is my 15th pacer in 16 years. I have to have my voltage turned up to the max to achieve a decent EKG without tons of afib, PVC, etc. when it is lower my CHF kicks in with a vengeance. However due to the fact my last pacer only lasted 7 months, I am considering trying it. I will have to go on a very low dosage of Coreg because the full dose caused me to go blind (shut down blood flow to topic nerve). My doc says he will turn in back up if I become sick at the lower rate. I'm just very confused on what to do in this. I have good days and bad days and remember the days when CHF had me in a wheelchair, on oxygen and on the transplant list. I'm really scared of doing this but also afraid For the battery life. It has been declining by 30 day intervals for the last 5 to 6 pacers. I use to get about a year out of them. Any advice would be appreciated!

Just wanted to say finding you guys has been so helpful!

Hope everyone has a great day,
Susan