hope it is not bad

coming week getting my pace/difib installed. very anxious here. scared also. any help will be appreciated. thanks

5 Comments

It's normal to be concerned

by Theknotguy - 2016-01-16 02:01:57

It's normal to be concerned about getting a pacemaker. Quite often the waiting causes more angst than the actual procedure. Some people report being more sore than others. It just depends.

You'll have the usual 4-6 week healing process. Try not to lift the arm on the PM side above the shoulder. Don't lift over 8-10 pounds with the arm on the PM side. Do keep moving such as walking. Do move the arms albeit gently. Drink plenty of water. Post healing of the implant wound, you'll want to slowly work up to normal activities.

There is a lot of misinformation out about pacemakers being affected by various things. You'll find you don't have to worry about anything in a typical US home bothering the pacemaker. You don't have to worry about TV towers, Cell phone towers, cell phones, store security, airport security, refrigerator magnets, microwave ovens, and all sorts of stuff even though the devices have warnings about pacemakers. You can resume your normal activities without fear of getting zapped.

After the implant wound has healed and you've stretched out the scar tissue, you can usually return to the athletic activities you had prior to getting the pacemaker. So life gradually returns to normal.

Some people go through an adjustment period that lasts longer than others. You may need adjustments to your pacemaker, you may need adjustments to medications.

Mostly you'll find that people adjust to life with the pacemaker and go back to 100% or better of life before the pacemaker. I feel attitude has a lot to do with that. If you feel your life will be better it probably will be. If you feel it's a hindrance it probably will be.

In any case, I wish you the best. Let us know when you get the pacemaker so we can welcome you to the club.

New PM Defib

by Good Dog - 2016-01-16 02:01:58

I am sure that you will find the operation to be quite easy. It is normal to be nervous, but I am sure you will be quite gratified when it is over. You will have a lot more piece of mind knowing that you have the security of this little unit watching over you. Of course, the goal is to forget you have it so that you can get on with your life.
You should have many, many happy years ahead.
Sincerely,
David

minimal impact from procedure

by techiej - 2016-01-16 07:01:22

FWIW - over the past 2 years I have had 7 surgical procedure with the most recent one being the PM.

It was by far the easiest on my body both from a post-op as well as a healing perspective.

The worst part of post-op for me is that I had an allergic reaction/rash from the adhesive.

I know feel better than I have in over a year - just follow the advice and warnings especially during recovery.

Just don't get overanxious about the procedure and read up as much as possible - also, ask your Dr as many questions as you'd like...likewise the nurses when you get your follow-up appointments. For me, knowledge helps.

It's not too bad

by Julzrockin - 2016-01-16 10:01:28

Hi I just had my 3rd pacemaker replaced earlier this week. I felt better right away, heart beat was back to normal set rate, skin was pink again. Was anxious beforehand as last one had been 8 years ago. So fjj7332, just stay calm and you'll be amazed at how much better you'll feel. :) Follow the Dr'S orders fo recuperation too. Good luck!

Relax

by Sheppey - 2016-01-16 10:01:30

In the last year.. I have had a Loop Recorder implanted .. and removed. A PPM implanted . Today, I have had a Cardiac Catheter... Angiogram procedure. I can promise you there is nothing to worry about.. My main concern today was.... Were there any sandwiches left?
They will make you most welcome, address any of your concerns and explain everything fully.
It is so routine, painless and so worthwhile having these procedures done.
Any soreness or discomfort can eased with a painkiller?
I have not required any pain relief following these procedures. I have certainly required pain relief for Fast A/F though.
Please do not be too nervous.... Check out the sandwich supply first??

You know you're wired when...

You have an excuse for gaining an extra ounce or two.

Member Quotes

To tell you the truth I never even give it a second thought. While growing up it never stopped me from doing anything and to this day my girlfriend or my kids need to remind me that I have one!