some hand holding needed

Short answer is a big "YES"

by MartyP - 2018-05-16 22:59:30

Surviving the problem that had the PM put in is really jaring.  We move from seeing it as life changing to life saving and that takes time to process.  So to answer your question, as it relates to me, and others have many different stories to share.  We know a lot because we've seen a lot.

For me, Sparky (and I suggest you give yours a name) was implanted 51 weeks ago after I passed out in a diner and then had a 31 second heart stop in the hospital.  When they woke me up and told me, I asked "so what do we do now", the nurse said, you get a pacemaker, I said great !!  4 hours later I had Sparky.  As for recovery, no real pain from the PM site, just a really very wicked stiff neck that took about a month of PT to clear.

After that about 6 months of depression and with meds that went away.  And of course at the same time PVC's ....  these are un-nerving but not dangerous ..... but now they are gone also; maybe one or two with a heavy dose of sugar or strong coffee, they are sort of fun to watch on my phone..

I'm 73, back to lifting (now at 190 on a bench press and dead lift) and I'm just careful to make sure the bar can't land on Sparky - "he" has to be protected - he's my "good buddy".

So for me and most others, YES, we have survived and we thrive.

That's not to say everyone has it that easy, there can be complications and setbacks.  But as I said earlier, on this site, the "veterean's" have seen just about everything and in many cases know more than the doctors......  so "stick around" and ask any questions and continue to tell us how you are doing.

At first

by Theknotguy - 2018-05-19 11:11:35

At first it seems you'll never be able to get the pacemaker off your mind.  Almost always a constant reminder it's there and being conscious of what it is doing.  Add to that the little bumps, thumps, and little tweaks that happen all the time that keep the pacemaker in the forefront of the mind.  And, yes, it does get tiring after a while to be seemingly constantly thinking about the device sitting in your chest.  However....

After a while you do tend to forget.  You get accustomed to the bumps, thumps, and little tweaks and your mind goes elsewhere.  I think it was nine months before I got out of the car and walked across the parking lot without thinking about my pacemaker.  So it does happen.  

I know a couple of people with pacemakers who can't tell you the manufacturer's name of their pacemaker and don't know if they have a single or dual lead.  And, most importantly they're happy that way.  One doesn't even like to be around me because I remind them they have a pacemaker.  They go on about their normal lives thinking as little about their pacemakers as possible.  

I'm probably more conscious of my pacemaker than most.  I volunteer at a hospital on the heart floor so am reminded more often.  Also am still having problems with a rib they broke while doing CPR so that keeps reminding me of having a pacemaker.  Then I have two programs running on my pacemaker to control afib.  I can feel it when those programs kick in. Yet another reminder.  Still there are days that go by without a conscious thought of my mechanical device.  And I feel the same will happen to you.  

Otherwise, my best wishes go out for you.  I hope you continue to have a good recovery.  
 

Yes, you'll stop thinking about it all the time

by Sharon M. - 2018-05-19 23:35:17

It takes a while to get used to big physical changes like getting a PM. I got mine 2 1/2 weeks ago, and boy, i know it's there all the time. It sticks out of my skinny little chest, and the skin above it is tender, plus of course I can't lift my left arm overhead yet. But after a while I know it'll just be the new normal.

I got an articficial aortic valve almost 25 years ago, and it took an entire year before I stopped feeling and hearing every heartbeat. I thought about it every day. Since then...I know it's there, of course, but it's just part of me. The PM will be, too.

Be patient with yourself. Let yourself think about it, and then...bring your awareness back to something else. Take a few deep breaths if you're feeling anxious. Meditation helps; you concentrate on that breathing. But give yourself pemission to settle in with your device! It's a bit like a marriage: a bit strange at first, but after a while having that other being there will just be the way it is. Welcome to the club!

Some handholding needed

by unsinkable - 2018-05-20 14:15:04

My pacemaker was implanted seven weeks ago and I am still getting used to it. Reading through the comments of others who,for lack of a better phrase, seasoned veterans, it does sound like the elephant at some point turns into a mouse. I am aware of my new friend but try to ignore it for the most part. I find I'm most aware in the evening when attempting sleep. It's hard to find a comfortable position but as with anything in life you adapt. The body is a marvelous thing and with care, can endure a lot. Be good to yourself, don't try and rush things. Give yourself time to heal. The folks here I have found are very supportive. Best wishes.

Give it time

by Wanderer - 2018-05-21 00:24:26

You will get used to this. Don't worry yourself, just remember it is new to you and this too will pass.

appreciate the encouragement

by Guzbug - 2018-05-22 10:51:34

still loving and appreciating each new bit of encouragement.  I am doing very well and my pm seems to be just what I have needed!  Thani you all again.