Considering Pacemaker

70yrs old, 2 mechanical valves, afiber 2 times a mth, 3 ablations, now considering a pacemaker. Would like to know more about the pros and cons, perfectly healthy otherwise, very active, golf, tennis, etc. Appreciate any info I can get.

Chat name TXCardiac (I am new to this site)

2 Comments

Pacemaker

by TXCardiac - 2014-09-09 08:09:04

Thanks for the input AngrySparrow, Good advice.

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by kittysa - 2014-09-09 12:09:03

I was 50 when I had mine implanted and use to be very active. Was having trouble with SOB with walking and stairs. At that point I had an EF of 20 (hospice qualifies you at 30). I was hesitant at first, but within 6 hours of the implant I climbed 2 flights of steps while breathing very comfortable. Now I scuba dive, travel international, hike hills and mountains, hunt and go caving. Would not hesitate to do it again.
The concern comment I will make is when my time comes to leave this world or I have DNR in place I want the device turned off or way down (depending on your need and comfort). Having a nursing background I have seen these devices bring you back when the Lord has call you home more than once, which is what the device is suppose to do. Sometime you just need to emphasis your wishes.

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