Jan. 9th
Welp ....... just got off the phone with my nurse and I will have my pacemaker as of Jan. 9th @ 1:00pm! Any advice as I get ready for that day?
4 Comments
Ditto and..
by Carol - 2007-12-28 10:12:05
I agree with Michelle's advice 100%. The other issue is THE BRA. If you feel you must wear a bra, now's the time to look for one that won't irritate your incision for the first several weeks. I tried strapless-for me didn't work well. Initially I just cut the strap off an old one -not great but it worked. The other thing I found to work well after the incision was healed but still alittle "ouchy" was to put a silicone pad under the strap that worked like a dream.
My husband tried to help me with the curling iron...that was a joke!!! I learned how to rest my left elbow on the vanity, bend my head low, and use the curling iron without raising my arm.....you'll learn to be creative too!
We gals do seem to have special issues! Best Wishes...Carol
From a Newbie
by 4putt - 2007-12-29 07:12:31
Had my first one installed this past Thursday...worst part was having to spend the night in the hospital. No meds and so far only very slight discomfort.
Just to add...
by Shelly - 2007-12-29 07:12:51
Pillows...LOTS of pillows. I found it easier to sleep slightly 'propped up' at first. Had 4 or 5 pillows behind me and a couple to rest my arms on either side. Sounds extreme I know, but at first your PM may seem 'heavy' in your chest. It's a weird feeling but trust me, IT DOES GET MUCH BETTER.
Try to check with the hospital whether you will be given some painkillers when they discharge you (I assumed they would and they didn't!!) If not, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice on what painkillers you can take, and get a supply ready at home - you may not need them, but it's much less hassle to have some just in case.
Finally, get stocked up on DVDs, books, whatever - find yourself a nice comfy postition on the sofa, and enjoy some guilt-free chillin' :-)
Shelly (UK)
You know you're wired when...
Your ICD has a better memory than you.
Member Quotes
Good luck with your surgery. It will improve life amazingly.
Advice
by hooimom - 2007-12-28 06:12:09
I say just ask every question you can think of so you feel well prepared. Try not to worry about what is to come....we have all come out okay and you will too!
You won't be able to lift the arm on your PM side for several weeks so make sure you have some help if needed. My husband had to put my hair up in a ponytail for me since I couldn't raise my arm to fix it. Make sure you have some button up shirts so you won't have to lift your arm to put a shirt on. Just think about the things you might have difficulty doing one armed and ask for some help. You can't lift anything over 5 pounds for several weeks as well.
Keep us all updated and ask anything!
Michelle