Late bruising

I had my first pacemaker implanted on July 20th of this year. The steri-strips were removed from the incision at my appt two weeks later (Aug 3). The incision was so thin and small and barely noticeable.

Over the last few days, it has begun bruising right around the incision. Is it normal for bruising to first occur so long after implant?


4 Comments

It happens

by Gotrhythm - 2018-08-12 15:10:56

Like Robin, I see no cause for alarm.

Do pay attention to your diet, making sure you are getting plenty of vitamin C from fruits and vegetables. I have found it makes a big difference in the amount of bruising I get from minor scrapes and bumps.

Thank you!

by cnikkih - 2018-08-12 22:10:05

Thanks for the quick & helpful responses! I’m sure you guys know how shocking this can all be, and I’m trying to walk that fine line between paying attention to my body without overthinking everything.  :-)

Bruising

by Selwyn - 2018-08-13 13:26:28

The time it takes for a bruise to appear is variable. It depends on the extent of the bruise, the depth of the bruise, and the movement of the body part. Some medical conditions cause bruising to be more apparent and to occur easier than if the body is normal. Clearly, being on blood thinners and/or aspirin/ clopidogrel  etc. can enhance the onset of bruising. 

I think 3 weeks after implantation is a long time for a bruise to appear. It may be that the site was disturbed whilst taking the steristrips off. It may be there is more movement at the site.

Advice: it minor and no bruising elsewhere, sit it out and observe. All should settle with time.

If the bruise is increasing seek medical help, likewise if you have bruising elsewhere. 

Selwyn 

 

Thanks Selwyn!

by cnikkih - 2018-08-14 11:54:04

I am on no other meds at all, and I am not having any other bruising, so everything seems to be okay. It's not painful, and there are no signs of infection. I do wonder if it is just because I have gotten active again (within my allowed boundaries!) so I've just "disturbed" the area. So far, it seems I don't have anything to worry about. I appreciate all the advice from everyone!

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My pacemaker is intact and working great.