Is this normal?

I have the pacemaker put on yesterday. Heart rate is adjusted from low 30s to 55-60bmp. Blood pressure was about 133/77 Everything seems alright, no fever. I was discharged and sent home today (2nd day).

After I had dinner - warm foods and salad (not fridge cold but room temperature salad), I went to bed falling asleep. Then I woke up felt very cold (room temperature was at 22.5C), checked my blood pressure it was high -159/100. I started to feel very scared. Maybe I didn't dress warm, or maybe I was so anxious.

Has anyone experienced this? Is this normal?

Thanks for your comment.

Braveheart

4 Comments

Pain

by Artist - 2015-03-15 10:03:05

Your high BP might also be response to post operative pain and discomfort. Typically PM recipients are discharged from the hospital with a prescription for pain medications. I resisted taking my pain meds but really was surprised by the amount of post operative pain and discomfort. Being an active person, it could be a temptation to overdo it, and it is important to follow your post operative instructions that usually involve restrictions on the amount of weight you should lift during the first 4 weeks and advice to not life your arm above shoulder level during the first two weeks. Best wishes for a speedy healing.

Glad You Finally Went Through With

by NiceNiecey - 2015-03-15 10:03:16

It And got the PM!

At the very beginning, there are going to be a lot of very strange sensations as your body adjusts to its new helper. BP, being cold/hot, sleeping a lot, sort of come with the territory so don't worry; those are small issues. If your heart starts beating in a super crazy rhythm or going really fast, or if you're in some kind of pain not related to the incision, call your doctor or go to the ER. Many of us made multiple ER visits in those first few weeks. ;~D. Let your body heal, much as you may want to exercise. Just do some brisk walking and don't let the dog yank your arm!

You are so right AngrySparrow

by braveheart - 2015-03-15 10:03:23

Angry Sparrow,

Thank you so much for your comments and sharing of your experience.

I put off this device for 4 years because I am very athletic and fit and overall had felt normal. However, my heart rate was low at 30s in day time and 20s in night time shown on my 24 hour Holter test.

Psychologically I just couldn't accept this reality that I am put on the pacemaker as I felt I was normal aside from the ECG or Holer reading. I just have to learn to accept this and feel thankful that I am safe now, live and embrace it.

What you suggested is so right - put away BP measuring, learn to move on.

Thanks again for your kind support!

Braveheart

Braveheart

by LuLu - 2015-04-13 10:04:46

After my surgery, which was not planned, I monitored every sensation I had. I had so many questions and concerns. It took a while to determine what was my "new normal". I hope you are feeling much beller since this post is a month old. I'm new to this site. Wish I would have found this a year ago. Like the name Braveheart, its fitting.

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