Short of breath

Shortness of Breath

by FaithGrace - 2016-09-21 00:23:22

I have actually noticed that I can breath better now with my pacemaker as my heart is pumping more regularly.  

Is this the first time you have felt the shortness of breath?  Are there any other symptoms along with the It?  What is your pulse  when it happens?  Is it mild or severe?   If it continues, I would definitely have it checked out.  

Adjustments for shortness of breath

by Jagd - 2016-09-21 11:23:56

Hi, I am 3 weeks into my PM implantation.  After the implant, my missing beats problem was solved; however, I found that quickly  moving from one position to another might bring on shotness of breath.  Especially true of climbing stairs or rapid movement from a sitting position.

Most pace makers have a rate response feature to handle this kind of a problem.  You may wish to check if yours is on or off.  Note the circumstances of when you experience the shortness of breath.  This will help your doctor make any necessary adjustments.

Turning on the Rate Response feature of my pacemaker, has virtually solved my shortness of breath problem.  In some cicumstances I am aware of the extra pacing but the longer I go, the less I notice it.

I wish you the best, and happy pacing.

Don't be too concerned

by GigiT - 2016-09-21 21:32:36

Although I have a defibrillator and not a pacemaker, I can relate. Right after the surgery, the muscles right around the incision tighten up, and since the ICDs are put right ontop of your lungs, breathing can become a little bit of a chore. It shouldn't be too much of a danger to you, but avoiding any REALLY heavy or strenious exercize can reduce the chances of shortness of breath. Also, if you are not already doing therapy, a couple visits could help streach out your chest and make breathing easier. 

But, if this isn't the case, GO SEE A DOCTOR. It might be nothing, but it's much better safe than sorry.

I hope this helped! Stay healthy.