When I turn over, I feel something odd

Hi everyone. Lately when I turn on my left side in bed, it feels like something is pulling. I actually went to the cardiologist a couple months ago feeling like it had moved and they said that was normal and told me to wear two sports bras when I walked!!!
This is something new. Of course, I am going to call the cardiologist, but since I have had the PM they are not all that responsive. They put me to a nurse to allay my fears and save their appointment schedule. I'm going to insist I get in there.
Also, how often do you have the manufacturer's rep check your monitor? I got mine last August, have only had it checked once and they say I shouldn't come back until this DECEMBER. Is that right? Any responses would be very welcome

5 Comments

Device checks

by Lurch - 2015-03-06 09:03:52

First, understand that I have an ICD vs a PM, but concepts are the same.....

For the first few months after implant, I felt a slight "tug" in my chest when I laid on my left side. To me, it felt like the wire running from my device was probably being pulled slightly. The feeling subsided after a while.

As for device checks, I got my first immediately after implant (about an hour later in my hospital room). The next one was in my EP's office about 7 days post implant. Then, about a month after implant in my Cardiologist's office; I am pretty sure this one was just to get me and my device into their system although the Tech did make one adjustment I had requested.

I use a home monitor that reports in (ICD call home) every night. Every three months the home monitoring system runs though a series of device checks and then sends a report to my cardiologist office. I am since found out that if I experience any usual situations the device also reports that (found that out after an episode of V-Tach which the device paced me out of; got a call from my Cardiologist's office about 2 hours asking if I was doing OK).

As for office visits, if nothing is going on, I have to make an appearance, and of course an office visit payment, once each year.

If they are referring your questions to the Device Tech (usually a Nurse within their office), I have found that mine is more up to date on issues regarding the device than my Cardiologist is....

Device Monitoring

by lauram65 - 2015-03-06 10:03:26

Thank you so much for your response and support

PM's

by lauram65 - 2015-03-06 10:03:32

I guess I should quit worrying. It is hard not to sometimes when all of a sudden you feel something different (I am not even a year out). I run/walk for exercise as well, that is why the suggested the sports bras. Haven't done it yet, but since it is winter, I'm not out walking much.

Thank you so much for responding. Stay well.

Exactly what IS an ICD?

PM's

by lauram65 - 2015-03-06 10:03:55

I guess I should quit worrying. It is hard not to sometimes when all of a sudden you feel something different (I am not even a year out). I run/walk for exercise as well, that is why the suggested the sports bras. Haven't done it yet, but since it is winter, I'm not out walking much.

Thank you so much for responding. Stay well.

Exactly what IS an ICD?

ICD

by lauram65 - 2015-03-07 07:03:39

Silly question maybe, but do you feel it when it shocks you? What if you are cooking, or driving, etc.?

You know you're wired when...

You can finally prove that you have a heart.

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