39yr old, 3 weeks post 2 surgeries (lead came loose) and still really sore

time

by Tracey_E - 2017-04-29 12:28:59

Cut yourself some slack! It came on suddenly and you had complications to compound the shock. It's ok to feel beat up, it's ok to be emotional, it's normal that you'd be pretty sore, a dose of self pity is perfectly normal too. It will not always feel like this, I promise! As you heal, the swelling will go down, it will settle in and won't be as noticeable. As we get back to our lives, we think about it less and one day you'll look back and realize you haven't given it a thought in days, or weeks. 

I know it's hard and half the time we don't even realize we're doing it, but try not to touch it. That just makes it take longer to heal. 

Are you icing several times a day? It can do wonders for pain and swelling. 

You are probably the youngest at your doctor's office but if you browse through here, you'll see that you're average in this crowd. We have members in college who have been paced since they were babies, others like you in their 20's and 30's. Others like me who have been paced a long time but still considerably younger than the stereotypical patient. I got my first one at 27, got my 5th last year. I'm healthy and active, it doesn't slow me down at all. You'll get there, too.

I was sleeping on my left side again 2-3 months post-op. Sleeping hugging a small pillow helped keep me from rolling on my side in my sleep. 

Newer pacers can go through security anywhere. I used to get a pat down but when I got my newest last year they said no need so now I've gone through the metal detectors without problem at the airport, concerts, games, courthouses, cruise ships, Disney. I carry my id card but the only time I've needed it in 20+ years is federal buildings in DC. 

If you have questions, ask away. Understanding how it works and what to expect can take away a lot of the fear. 

3 weeks post 2 surgeries

by aj - 2017-04-29 23:03:09

I cannot relate to leads coming loose. I can assure you by personal experience you will get better and be thankful for the pacemaker. I spent years suffering from SSS, in and out of emergency rooms. My pacemaker saved and changed my life. Free from problems since implant at age 65 soon to be 67. Follow the doctors orders and live happily now and forever.

Welcome to the Club, Jen

by NiceNiecey - 2017-05-01 02:47:19

Yes, in time you will "wrap your head around" the thought of an implanted device in your chest; we all do.  Admittedly, after 3 years, it is rare for me not to think about my pacemaker in a given day.  I feel lame about that but most of my thoughts surround how thankful I am that there is such a device and that I live in a place where I can easily get one!

I fly way too much. (If you ever wonder who flies too much, it's those of us that want to "vacation" at home!) I live in a smaller metro area and we have two-types of machines for security 1) the traditional walk-on through machine; and 2) the 'put your feet on the yellow footprints' and raise your arms over your head while the device scans across your body machine.  I was told to only go through the second one.  Going through the first one won't kill you but it can reset your PM settings momentarily.  I went through that kind once at an airport (just forgot about my device - hooray!!).  I felt a little woozy for a couple seconds and that was it. Truthfully, it was probably the power of suggestion!

Metal detectors outside airports (and probably courthouses) aren't usually strong enough to cause a problem.  Some are sort of a joke, especially overseas.  Just don't stop and stand right there; keep walking through.

Traveling overseas is when I need my PM card.  Certain countries ask me for it and I just returned from a lengthy stay in Hong Kong where I paid a visit to the Consul General of a foreign country there.  They asked me for my card when I said I couldn't go through their metal detector and . . . I had left it at the hotel . . . I never know where I'll find myself so I may as well drag along another card with all the others I carry!

I must say, looking back over the 10 years prior to getting my PM, I feel so much better than I did before and I didn't even realize I was sick.  I trust it will be the same for you.  There is precious little you can't or won't be able to do.  We try to encourage overall heart health like exercise and eating well.  Thank goodness your electrical fuse box is now in working order!

Sweet dreams!!!

Eads

by TBrous&Chip - 2017-05-01 05:10:18

No doubt that you have a lot to adjust to very quickly along with your normal responsibilities. The 2nd surgery added to the stress.  Try to remember that a PM is a tool to help you feel better and continue everyday activity.  Leads are coming loose are fairly rare. Sorry to hear that you are one of tbe few. 

My experience since receiving a PM have been good.  After 1 yr I do still think about the PM but am getting better at not worrying as much. It just takes longer for some of us. The more busy you are the easier it is to forget.

Good luck to you.

Thanks

by JenM - 2017-05-02 01:05:11

Thanks for the comments and words of encouragement. I have finally come to the point that I don't feel the PM at every second, now it's sore when I move. I'm also surprised that it is still really bruised. Not sure how long the soreness will last. I am hoping that once the soreness subsides, I will be able to move on and just think of the positives. 

I am thankful for this group, as it makes me feel not so alone, even though I have been surrounded and supported by so many in these last few weeks.