Anxiety and sleeplessness

Hi everybody! I'm 47 years old and a former professional athlete. After years of progressively worsening heart arrhythmia I actually fainted and was non responsive for about 30 seconds. I have slightly elevated blood pressure but I have no other risk factors. My stress test, echo, MRI,  nuclear stress test, all appear normal. An EKG does however show a right and left bundle branch blockage.  I was implanted  two days ago with an ICD. I was initially excited because I felt that it would eliminate my anxiety regarding a sudden heart related incident. I believe it has, but I am experiencing anxiety and I actually noticed that any stress at all seems to be more pronounced on my heart. I've never had angina but I believe I may have it now. Is it common to experience this post surgery? I can't seem to tolerate ANY stress. Previously I thought I had a pretty high tolerance for stress. I have a demanding job. Thank you guys! 

4 Comments

give it some time

by Tracey_E - 2016-12-04 18:04:50

It's normal to go through an adjustment period mentally in addition to the physical. You sound pretty grounded to me! Cut yourself some slack, it's only been a few days. 

It's normal to notice your heart rate a lot more right after. Before when we are in block, the atria beats but the ventricles don't always respond. Now they do, so it can feel like it's going up and down a lot. It's normal, but it's not what we've felt as normal for a long time so it feels crazy fast sometimes. After a while, the new ups and downs will feel normal. 

Thank you!

by Big_E - 2016-12-04 22:31:35

Thank you! Never thought I would need the support of others. I'm a Pretty proud guy. I appreciate your responses more than you could know. I also feel like people are looking at me like I'm fragile. I hate that. You guys are awesome! 

Thank you!

by Big_E - 2016-12-04 22:32:00

Thank you! Never thought I would need the support of others. I'm a Pretty proud guy. I appreciate your responses more than you could know. I also feel like people are looking at me like I'm fragile. I hate that. You guys are awesome! 

the looks

by Tracey_E - 2016-12-05 13:12:18

It's normal for people to worry about us! They mean well. As we get back to normal and act like our old selves again, the looks will stop. People follow our lead, act like it's no big deal and soon they'll move on. I had a replacement earlier this year and was amused how many people had forgotten I have it. 

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