Premature beats

I got my rate response pacemaker in april due to bradycardia. I'm only atrial paced. I've been having alot of premature beats. Which makes me feel crappy. I was pacing a bit high so my EP turned down my setting. And I still feel pretty bad. They can't give me the beta blockers because I'm 3 months pregnant. Shouldn't my pacemaker have fixed stuff like this? I'm not sure whats going on and what I should do.

3 Comments

PVC's

by donr - 2012-09-04 10:09:24

In a word - "NO." Sorry to be the bearer of bad news.

A PM is only a "gas pedal," not a "brake." Meaning it can only speed up things, not slow them down.

Yes, PVC's can & will make you feel crappy - at best.

I have essentially th same problems you have. Started out w/ a Sick Sinus Syndrome (SSS). Got PM & after a while developed PVC's out the wazoo. Now on beta blockers & a drug called Flecainide to slow down heart & kill PVC's. PM brings HR back up to where it needs to be for comfort.

What can you do? work w/ your EP. ASK him if there are any other anti-arrythmic drugs you might take. I just Googled Flecainide & Acebutolol for pregnancy. I se why they don't want to give you either of those - bad news for baby.

You just might have to muck your way through.

Wish you the best in the next 6 months.

Don

Sometimes

by ILoominatedEKG - 2012-09-06 12:09:11

My PM stopped my afib and brady, but that's not always the case. These irregular hearteats (PACs and PVCs)make you feel crappy, but my doc says they are not really dangerous of themselves. It's more important to determine if there is some reason (infection, heart damge, etc) why they are occuring, especially if that can be treated.

My guess is they may get worse instead of better while you're pregnant. Increased abdominal pressure may cause more irritation to your heart which may result in more PACs. But again, they are usually not harmfull unless they just won't stop. Even then one usually has plenty of time to implement treatment options. It's not like a cardiac arrest or anything.

Keep us informed of how things are going. Best wishes. I'll say a prayer for you and baby.

Dave

Update

by bradymom3 - 2012-10-02 01:10:17

After further testing they found out part of my problems are due to hyperthyroid/graves disease. We are currently working on a treatment plan.Thanks for your help and support!

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