Brand New Pacemaker Person

Hi there. I had my first pacemaker implanted only 3 days ago. I am endeavouring to rest and take it easy but I am a natural "doer" and have to be strict with myself. In the past we have travelled quite a lot and hope that we will still be able to do this. We live in Australia and travel here and internationally. I would appreciate any tips for my new situation. My usual exercise is an hour walk a day. Wonder when I can start this again. Logically start with shorter times I guess.

4 Comments

An alternative opinion

by ElectricFrank - 2013-01-25 01:01:33

Just use some sense and get wioth the activity if you feel like it. Just heed the restrictions on lifting the pacer side arm above shoulder level, and go easy on the heavy lifting.

I was out for a mile walk the day I came home with my new pacer and in a couple of days was up to my usual 3 miles. I was also out driving around the desert back roads in just a few days.

So did damage my leads? My latest checkup showed my leads implanted in 2004 have very close to the same impedance readings as they did at implant.

Just keep in mind that on the forum we have the "carefuls" and the "go for its". Fit your self to the group that you feel like.

frank

welcome

by my4turtles - 2013-01-25 01:01:40

HURTHEART
Pretty much went over everything with you, one thing i want to point out is as you get active the first couple months your device might needs adjustments.. So if you find yourself getting dizzy or anything let your Dr know .. I had to have mine done a couple times the first couple months and with you being so active they might have to do that.
You should do great and before you know if be feeling better than you have in a long time..
I also made copies of my pacemaker card and made sure i gave it in both my cars as well as hanging on my fridge so if there is ever a emergency at home my info is right there..

Welcome and Best Wishes

by Ramnarayan - 2013-01-25 08:01:47

Good advice from Folks above.

Many Docs and many literature, even on web, mention that Metal detectors are safe for PMs - USA VISA Application form specifically says so. I always mention to the security guy at the detector about my PM and show him the card. Almost every one obliges by switching off the detector for me (and will for you) and do a physical body check.

I am 64, male, and got my 2nd PM exactly a month back. I went for my morning walk 7th day onwards. Doc gave me a green signal on 5th day! I am back to my full stretch of 35 / 40 mts of brisk walk every day for last 15 days.

Listen to & trust your body's feed back and start with smaller distances. Happy walking.

For other activities, yours being the 1st PM, you have to let the leads setlle down and get anchored at both ends. Once that is done - 6/8 weeks - you can get back to regular routine.

Welcome to the Club and Happy Normal days!!

RN





Unexpected Changes

by Unexpected Changes - 2013-01-26 04:01:48

Thanks for your comments. It is Saturday early evening in Melbourne, Australia and I had my implant of a Boston Scientific pacemaker on Tuesday morning. I am feeling really good. Went for my first walk today, then feeling great did a bit of shopping with my husband, visited son etc etc. Out for about 6 hrs and was glad to get home and shower and relax but I felt really good. All baby steps in this new life with my pacemaker. Thanks again for taking the time to comment.

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