OL-Man

I am a recent Pacemaker victum.I have been an active Hiker, Hunter, camper, and Boy Scout Leader for many years.Now my doctor says I cannot shot anymore and not able to carry a backpack.

i know I am not along.My question, has a backpack been made for our comfort, and use?
My PM was installed because I have an under developed nerve from my brain to the hesrt,It is not sending the proper electrical charge all the time.Outer than that ,I am a very health old man. I have a new Boy Scout Troop and donot waant this PM to slow me down.Is there a company that makes a pack for me?

4 Comments

Backpack

by golden_snitch - 2014-05-09 02:05:29

Hi!

If it feels comfortable, you can continue to carry your normal backpack. There are members here who do backpacking/hiking with no issues. I have carried a 15 kilo backpack on a hiking trip in Norway, no problems at all. Regarding shoting, I think you are still allowed to shot on the other side, but not where the pacemaker pocket is.

There is no nerve from the brain to the heart telling it to beat. The heart has an autonomous electrical system. That's why it even keeps beating for a while when you take it out! So, not sure what your diagnosis is. Maybe a sick sinus syndrome?

The pacemaker is not there to slow you down, on the contrary: It's supposed to help you lead a normal life.

Best wishes

Inga

Dr.

by Rogue427 - 2014-05-09 08:05:19

I told my Dr. that I hunt so he installed my ICD on the left side. Also know of a lefty with his inplanted on the right side. Your Dr. is misinformed. Hope this helps.

Or you can switch shoulders . . .

by SaraTB - 2014-05-09 12:05:59

Admittedly I only use a .22, for target shooting, but I ended up switching to the opposite shoulder (not easy, as I am left-eye dominant). I presume you are using something larger for hunting, or a shotgun? It's all about the recoil hitting the pacemaker area and causing bruising. It won't harm the pacemaker, but it will hurt the surrounding tissue.
As others have said, your doctor is being over-cautious. The more you read at this site, the more you'll see people carrying on exactly as they did before - or better, once the incision area has healed. Lots of hikers/hunters here.

I don't think any member here would describe themselves as you do: "a pacemaker victim". The PM is helping us all live the best life we can: I'm not a victim, I'm grateful I have it, because without it, I'd be lying on a sofa all day or worse instead of leading an entirely normal, unmedicated, life. Any time I'm inclined to grumble, I remind myself "consider the alternative" . . .
Sara
definitely NOT a victim.

backpack and vagus nerve

by Kluge - 2014-05-10 06:05:06

I think there is something called a messenger bag that you might find useful, at least on one day outings. I believe they are carried on one shoulder.

There is a nerve system that in some way influences pulse coming from the brain stem. I have read references to the vagus nerve. That may be what you are referring to.

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Member Quotes

I have a well tuned pacer. I hardly know I have it. I am 76 year old, hike and camp alone in the desert. I have more energy than I have had in a long time. The only problem is my wife wants to have a knob installed so she can turn the pacer down.