Pacemaker Migration

Hi. I am 52 years old and have sick sinus syndrome. I had a pacemaker inserted almost three weeks ago. It feels like it has moved and feels a bit uncomfortable. I also experience a few tingling sesations every now and then. Has anyone else ever experienced this before? I am also feeling a little sad because the reality of having a permanent device to help my heart keep rythm is now setting in. Any suggestions for coping

2 Comments

New Pacemaker

by SMITTY - 2012-07-16 11:07:04

Hello Deloris,

I had my first PM implanted in 2000 for sick sinus syndrome. I'll admit they do take a little getting used to, but nothing major. As for coping, remember that your PM is an on demand PM. That means the PM has a high set point and for someone age I'll guess it will be about 120 for you. The PM also has a low set point which may be any where from 50 to 70 for you. I'll guess your low set point is 60. That means the PM will step in to help out only when your heart rate drops below that low set point. All other times it just sit there monitoring your heart function waiting to see if its help is needed.

In reality, that PM will probably be helping you heart a small percentage of the time. When you get a PM check up they can tell you what that percentage is. One thing to remember is if that PM were to quit this minute your heart function would simply go back to doing what it was doing before you got it and your Dr could then implant another one.

The tingling sensation may be from some the electrical impulse the PM sends to your heart when needed is getting detoured and stimulating a nerve. These happen to many of us from time and most of the time they will go away after a while. If not it may take some tweaking of the PM settings to stop it. Nothing uncommon about having to have that done.

As for the PM feeling like it has moved, I would say you need to talk to your Dr about that. Time may take care of things or it may need some help from the Dr.

Above all don't let that PM take over your life. As I have said it is nothing but a helper and since you got it for SSS you can get along without it just as well as you were getting along before you got it.

Good luck,

Smitty

Coping

by Grateful Heart - 2012-07-17 09:07:38

Hi Deloris,

I too have SSS as well as LBBB. I had my ICD implanted at 51, almost 4 years now. It is a shock to most of us, with no real guidance regarding this new device that paces and protects your heart. Many Cardiologists do not feel we have a heart condition because we do not have any blockages (just a titanium device correcting our beating hearts). There have been some great recent discussions here about this.

This site and all those who help are truly a Godsend. It takes some time to get used to the idea of a PM and after awhile you let go and trust the device and hopefully your doctors to monitor your progress.

My device moved towards my armpit too and is still not where it should be (I think), but I am getting used to it. The tingling, like Smitty said, is probably a nerve every now and then zinging you.

I am sorry you are feeling sad, but I do understand; it is a shock to most of us. Just look up at the beautiful blue sky and cotton clouds and think, you are still here to see the sun, sky and moon. That's what I saw when I woke up the next morning after my initial surgery. I can still see that sky today!! I hope this helps a little.

Please feel free to ask any questions to any of us...that's what we are here for. Take Smitty's advice, he's one of the veterans here and he is soooo helpful.

Take care,
Mary Ellen

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