Pacemaker

I had a Pacemaker implanted in May of 2018.  My first checkup at 60 days showed I was pacing 35% of the time.  Recently (around 13 weeks) I was still feeling a little lightheaded and returned to the Hospital Pacemaker Clinic.  Testing showed I was now pacing at 96% of the time.  Not too worried about this change as I am exercising more now.  The technician did do some adjustments.  This was 3 days ago.  Since this last visit, I am feeling a prickly sensation around the actual pacemaker.  I have no idea if this is the pacemaker or my clothing rubbing on my sensitive skin around the bump.  I am 73 years old so my skin is pretty thin.  Has anyone else experienced this kind of sensation?  If it's the sensitive skin, is there anything I can rub on the site to toughen up the skin?  P.S  my dizziness might be related to a vestibular imbalance.  I am investigating that further.   Not sure if I should return to the clinic or not. (I have another appointment in early November 2018).  It doesn't feel serious, just really irritating.

5 Comments

Nerves regenerating

by Grateful Heart - 2018-08-27 11:41:30

The nerves were cut and are now healing.  It felt like ant bites to me....or a needle stick.  It's sharp and quick and it really hurts..lol

You may feel it off and on for the next 6 months or more.  It will subside.

I also had vestibular imbalance last year....not fun.  My ENT sent me to vestibular physical therapy which helped after a few months.  They said some only take a visit or two for the crystals in the ear to go back into place.  If they send you to therapy for it....do the exercises at home to....it help.s

Grateful Heart

Pacemaker

by Grouchy Goose - 2018-08-27 12:42:36

Dear Grateful Heart,  Thanks ever so much for your response.  The feeling I'm getting isn't really painful, more annoying, like buzzy ants crawling on my skin. Very disconcerting.  That it's the nerves, makes sense.   I am glad to know it will subside.  I guess it's just coincidental that it began shortly after my second follow-up (and adjustment).  My bra or v-shirts also irritate my thin skin around the pacemaker.  I will try some vitamin E oil to see if I can toughen up my skin a bit.  I am also doing vestibular physio rehab and it does help.  My ENT put me on Lipoflavanoids.  Apparently, they might work or not and they can take up to 6 months to help out. I felt it's worth a try.  Again, Grateful Heart, thank you so much for your response.  It has put me at ease and I won't be running back to the clinic. :)

 

Grouchy Goose

by Electric Elise - 2018-08-27 15:52:17

Hi there, i just wanted to try and put your mind at ease even further - i’ve been having those antsy feelings on and off as well (implant 2 months ago) so you’re not alone and it’s all just part of the healing process.

Sending much love!

Pacemaker

by Grouchy Goose - 2018-08-27 17:03:36

Dear Electric Elise,  Thank you so much for your support and information.  I appreciate it.

This made me feel much better too!

by NanTastic - 2018-08-27 22:53:43

Thanks for the question and comments- I’ve been experiencing those “pin pricks” sensations as well, so I’m very relieved to hear this is normal!  

Love this forum!! 

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