First Question

Hello, I had my pacemaker/defibrillator implanted Friday. Friday through Sunday I thought I was completely cured and all was back to normal. Then Monday night I went out and the huffing and puffing returned. I was devastated and totally bummed out. A little history - 2013 for the year chemo then radiation for breast cancer then kidney removal for cancer and recovery. Had problems with shortness of breath and figured I was out of shape. It continued throughout 2014 and into 2015. By spring it was full force. Insurance would not pay for device. I literally sat in my chair in front of tv and got out of breath going to bathroom. Finally Jan 2016 my ejection fraction dropped enough I got my device. I guess I know my stamina is shot. Can someone PLEASE tell me what is best to do and when I will feel like living again. Thank you.

3 Comments

Too much too soon?

by BillH - 2016-02-03 05:02:18

Could it be that you are trying to do too much too soon?

You might want to ask your doctor to see if you qualify for cardiac rehab.

If your EF got that low the heart will take some time to adjust to the working with the device in addition to SLOWLY building up stamina.

Good news, bad news....

by Lurch - 2016-02-03 07:02:05

The good news is you can work to get back doing things again. Think about for it for a minute. You have had heart issues for almost three years per your statement. To address that you had surgery where they not only gave you a bunch of drugs and knocked you out for awhile, they cut a hole in your chest, ran a wire(s) into your heart where they screwed it into the wall of your heart, placed a battery and computer in your chest and sewed (and/or glued) your chest back together. And you wonder while you haven't totally recuperated in three days?!!?!?!?

It will take some time. You will need to start easy and work your way up. Start with slow easy walks; extend the distance a little bit each day.

The bad news is you will have some set backs. You will get tired and not want to walk or exercise. You may catch a cold or a bug and feel bad. You will have days where you just don't have any energy. But, KEEP AT IT!

Good luck and keep fighting!

It takes time!

by JenSF - 2016-02-03 09:02:24

Just to add to the comments you've already had. It will take time, but you WILL feel better. There are certainly people on here who feel amazing immediately after surgery, but I think most people take some time, especially if you've had other health issues going on.

I know for me, it can take a few months before I feel completely recovered after I get a new pacemaker. (I know that sounds like a lot of time, but it's really not in the big picture!) First, give yourself time to heal from the surgery, then gradually increase the amount you do each day.

I had my most recent surgery last fall and now I'm back to downhill skiing and snowshoeing with no limits! You'll get there too.

Take care,
Jen

You know you're wired when...

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