Is this due to the voltage or something else

I received my pacemer 6 weeks ago and on three instances I've been really scared because my heart rate spikes to 100-130 (resting is 60 lower limit is 50) after feeling what I'll call a "thump." I'll then feel weird and sort of short of breath for a brief period and then it normalizes. Is that due to the voltage being so high? I have a PM for sinus arrests so I'm not pacing as often as some of you. I feel like maybe I just get startled when it kicks in. Could it be something else? Like SVT with palpitations or an arrythmia? I hate to worry so much but my EP is out of the office today.

2 Comments

Not certain of the cause but I am experiencing the same...

by 0o0 DC 0o0 - 2017-10-16 12:13:46

Hey! I had my PM placed about 3 weeks ago for the same reason as you. Mine is dual chambered and set on DDD(R) which to my understanding means it just sits there quietly sensing both the right atrium and ventricle and only kicks in when required. More specifically the (R) bit means that the rate is automatically picked up in times of physical/emotional stress. I am not sure if this is exactly the same as you but I have noticed that mostly when I am a bit more active and also when I bend down suddenly I get a similar 'thump' like sensation followed by breathlessness and a heart rate of around 120 which then normalises just as you say, this has also happened a couple of times whilst I have been resting. I am not absolutely sure but I have put this down to the (R) setting being perhaps a bit too sensitive and responding to only slight increased movements. Let me know what your EP says when you see them, will be interested to hear if I am barking up the wrong tree and can bring it up with mine when I next see him :)! 

Me too

by Raymabelle - 2017-11-17 02:14:46

I had a pacemaker fitted 4 weeks ago and I am experiencing the same.I have had several bouts of tachycardia at rest, which often starts with what I describe as a 'lurch' in my chest.

I am also getting arrythmias when at rest, especially at night, when I try to go to sleep. I also experience chest pain at that point too. I'm really worried about it. Will mention to cardiologist when I see him in two weeks time for a check up.

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At age 20, I will be getting a pacemaker in few weeks along with an SA node ablation. This opportunity may change a five year prognosis into a normal life span! I look forward to being a little old lady with a wicked cane!