Getting Ready

I'm going in Tuesday or Wednesday to have a pacemaker/defib put in; how am I going to feel afterwards. I have LBBB with an EF of 30. Will I have more energy and better able to breth

26 Comments

THANK YOU

by LindaScarberry - 2008-04-20 05:04:02

Rod,
Thanks for your feedback; I'm excited but scared. I want my energy back and my lifestyle. I am so grateful to have found this site. This morning I have been reading all the comments, etc. and it has answered so many of my questions.

I'll let you know how it goes!
Linda

Get ready for better days

by harley63 - 2008-04-20 05:04:19

Hi Linda,
Welcome to the PM site. You will find a lot of information here. Locate the search function in the grey bar on the top right of the site. Just enter the topic (one word) and you will find all sorts of articles and post.

Good luck this week and I will be thinking about you. Let us know how your doing and know that we are all here to support and encourage you.

Harley63

Getting Ready

by Nim Rod - 2008-04-20 05:04:52

Hi Linda,

You probably will feel better since left bundle branch block (LBBB) is a condition which causes the left ventricle contraction to be delayed. This results in the left ventricle contracting later than the right ventricle and this could be a contributing factor to your low EF. With a pacemaker to help keep both ventricle chambers contracting as they should your EF should increase, resulting in your feeling better and having more energy.

You may notice considerable improvement in a few hour or it could take a few days, but my guess is you will feel better and not be so short of breath.

Good luck and let us know how things go.

Nim Rod

getting ready

by jbkeys - 2008-04-20 07:04:03

Good luck this week, my prayers are with you, you will get you energy back, but take it slow for the first week, the site is going to be sore, and you will have adjust in using your left hand, no heavy lifting and do not put your arm above your head, the site has to heal, the the pm has to settle in. Hope you are not a lefty, it was a bumber for me. god bless, let is know how things go. take care jbkeys

Good Luck!

by Swedeheart - 2008-04-20 07:04:17

Linda,

Good luck on your upcoming procedure. I bet it will eventually make you feel much better. However, (not to rain on the parade here...) for many of us it often takes quite awhile for everything to settle in and feel better. No matter how well you feel after your body will have quite a bit of adjustment to your new techo buddy... give it time to heal. Ask all sorts of questions, and follow your doctors directions!

It has already been mentioned to take it easy with your arm (don’t raise it above your shoulder, etc.) for about 6 - 8 weeks. But, you do need to use your arm lest it becomes too inactive and "freezes" and then you are in for a long haul with physical therapy.

Many folks here have had great EP’s and Cardio’s that explain everything, others have not. If you don’t feel you have been given lots of information write down all your questions and ask before surgery, and again after. Ask your health care professionals, and if the answers aren’t clear, ask them here... lots of good information and good folks here!

Here is a link to the general procedure and a few things you might want to know. This may or maynot be exactly how your physicians go about things, but it should give you a good idea of what to expect.

http://www.clevelandclinic.org/heartcenter/pub/guide/
tests/procedures/icd.htm

I have a pacemaker and mine is about 1/2 the size of a ICD. You may want to inquire about any placement options of your new device. Most are placed right under the left collar bone and they will protrude a bit. As a woman I will tell you my bra strap irritates the site and there is quite a few threads with this topic. It isn’t horrible, just a nuisance factor. Some docs will place them in other places under the arm, etc. but it may or may not be what they advise. But, you can always ask.

Good luck. We look forward to hearing how you are feeling after your implant! I am sure you will eventually feel better, especially with your condition.

Swedeheart

Best of luck

by admin - 2008-04-20 08:04:49

I can't add much more than the others have already said. All the best!

Blake

LINDA ME AGAIN

by LindaScarberry - 2008-04-20 09:04:37

I have CHF (left bundle bridge block with an EF of 30); what do you think about the stockings?

ME AGAIN!

by LindaScarberry - 2008-04-20 09:04:48

Sorry to keep asking questions! Someone mentioned to me yesterday that you have to wear heavy type stockings for two weeks! Is that true and why?

Linda

Stockings

by Pete K - 2008-04-20 09:04:52

Linda, that likely would be true if u have congestive heart failure (CHF) and so have swollen legs and or ankles. Otherwise prob wouldn't be any need for them.
Don't be sorry!! Keep asking them!! Only way folks can help. LOL

Getting ready

by Judieanne - 2008-04-20 09:04:55

Hi Linda. Some of the ladies on this site suggested to me that I should wear a bra to sleep in for a week or more. If you are big busted, the weight from your breast will pull down on the surgery (especially if it is a defibrillator like mine). Have your husband take you to the beauty shop and have your hair done. I don't like to leave the house without my makeup on and hair done. This really lifted my spirits the following week from surgery. It just takes time to get used to the new toy, but things will get better. Take care, Judy

Thanks

by LindaScarberry - 2008-04-20 09:04:57

Thanks for all of your feedback! It really is helping me with my anxiety and fear of the unknown. Do you recommend an arm sling for partial use?

Linda

A bit more from Redd

by Smart Redd - 2008-04-20 11:04:20

What I just shared was my experience. Each of us is different. Each DR. may give slightly different post-op orders. I wouldn't suggest what worked for me will work the same for you. I just wanted to share how things went from my perspective in the hope that you could find questions for your health professionals and answers to some current questions to prepare yourself for the upcoming days.

Love ya! Redd

CHF

by Smart Redd - 2008-04-20 11:04:52

I had my ICD procedure 3/13/08. It was recommended because I have CHF and EF of 25-ish. No one suggested stockings and I wouldn't see any reason for needing them since I didn't have problems with swelling that couldn't be controlled with meds.

I was given a sling to wear. Since I had been told not to raise my arm or lift anything heavy, but never told to not use my arm, I asked if I HAD to wear the sling. I was told no. The sling was meant to remind me not to break those 2 'rules'. I wore the sling at night, but during the day I usually wore a crocheted 'chain' around my wrist that was connected to my pants. It kept me from accidently raising my arm and was a constant reminder not to lift things. I did wear the sling in public with the thought that others would give me more space if I looked the part of a temporary 'handicap'.

Even after the prescribed '4 weeks' of caution DR. had given, I continued to wear a crocheted 'bracelet' with pompons as a reminder to myself to take it easy. (I know myself well enough to know I would need a bit of help not to overdo it.)

I am a bit large busted but didn't wear a bra for the first couple of weeks (mainly because I couldn't get one on alone) and had no problems with soreness because of that. Once I could hook myself up, I found that none of my bra straps were in a place to irritate or rub my incision. . . guess my placement just worked out well.

I had my hair cut shorter than usual just before my ICD surgery. I knew I wouldn't be able to wash or care for anything longer. A good thing for me, as a prior posted noted, looking your best is important when you're not feeling your best. I'm still having 'adjustment' problems with the whole idea of having the ICD, but physically things are progressing well.

Redd


Redd again

by Smart Redd - 2008-04-21 02:04:30

1. I certainly am feeling better from the effects of the surgery, I suppose I am feeling better as a result of the ICD, but since I didn't have many symptoms that weren't controlled by my meds, I can't really say I've improved health-wise.
2. I can't feel my ICD working. Of course, I can't tell when the pacing is increased or decreased during testing either. For a few weeks, I had a problem with a jumpy diaphragm that both DH and I found uncomfortable (to say the least) but some minor adjustments by a Medtronic technician have worked most of that problem out.
3. I was in the hospital one day longer than I wanted. I was requesting to go home during the gurney ride to my room after surgery. I was quite uncomfortable - heck I'd just had surgery - but I didn't recognize my feelings as 'pain'. By the time I was sprung, the nurses and DR. were totally tired of my constant "Can I go home now?"
4. For me, the device - in my GFs words - looks like a third boob! It's not quite that bad, but I feel it had moved out of its 'pocket' prior to the healing process and that one corner is sitting just below the skin. DR. insists it's a temporary swelling and that the ICD will gradually settle to somewhere behind the breast area.
Huh! He's got over 14 years doing this, but. . . it's my body. Who's to tell?
5. It was two weeks before I had clearance to drive. I think part of that wait was a result of getting on his bad side (see #3) since I wasn't even supposed to see him between the first week and June. My DH does most of the driving anyway, and I did find the driver's seat belt uncomfortable for the first 3-4 weeks.
6. With the shorter hair I can lather, scrub, and rinse in the shower with one hand.
7. Sling? My 'leash" kept me from raising the arm AND allowed me to keep the use of my arm. Hey, I've had a 'frozen' shoulder and it isn't fun!
8. My breathing level wasn't a problem for me before the surgery (unless I was walking up 3-4 flights of stairs) and I've always run a pretty high energy level. I build houses with HFH (Habitat) and do a lot of yard work and gardening, so no, not a big difference right away. Others have said their results were much speedier. I think part of my lack of energy for the first 3-4 weeks was due to a spot of depression(?) because of misinformation and lack of expectations prior to having the surgery. I should'a found this site BEFORE my surgery. I'm still waiting for that 'feel better' mode. I seriously can't tell the difference, but then I basically felt symptom free as long as I took my meds.

There are 'hidden' health effects related to having the ICD (according to DR. who's still a tad upset with me) such as increased blood flow, a shrinking of my enlarged heart, and a longer life expectancy. Those I can't address yet.
Hope I was able to help allay some questions and/or fears. The unknown IS scary and the best defense is information. Don't EVER hesitate to ask a question, express a fear or air a gripe. These folk are a heap o' help and support!

Best of luck, Linda. If yours goes as well as mine you should be well satisfied.

Love, Redd

LINDA'S UPDATE

by LindaScarberry - 2008-04-21 03:04:06

To Everyone Who Responded to GETTING READY!

Just found out they are not going to do my surgery until 5/16; the doctor wants to be on call the weekend I'm in the hospital so he's asked me to wait. I'm really bummed because I want this done sooner than later!!! Patience isn't one of my virtues! So I guess, I'll wait and keep reading the postings on this site.

All of you have been so helpful; it really does make a difference when we can arm ourselves with knowledge and experiences from others.

Thank you all,
Linda

Hi Redd

by LindaScarberry - 2008-04-21 03:04:22

I can't tell you how much I appreciate your feedback. I have an excellent doctor and he clearly answers all of my questions and tells me what to be prepared for. But they can never cover each person's questions unless we ask! I'm trying to educate myself so I'll know the questions to ask. You and this website are incredible.

I did just find out that my doctor wants to wait until May 16 to do the surgery. He wants to do it when he's on call so he'll be there for me instead of a strange doctor I don't know. I understand that, but I am bummed because I want to get this party started!!!!

Third boob, huh! Great, just what I need! It sounds like the ICD is much bigger than the pacemaker! I'm looking forward to this new attractive addition!

Okay, so what is a jumpy diaphram? Sounds frightening!

I know what my DH stands for; what does your?

byw; what state are you located?

Thanks Again

Love, Linda

Redd again

by Smart Redd - 2008-04-21 05:04:15

For me, a jumpy diaphragm feels sorta like a baby kicking or a hiccup without the "hic". Not so scary, just (for me) very annoying as I couldn't get much sleep during that time.

My ICD is about half the size of a cell phone cover. LIke a cavity, it only seems big when it's yours.

After nagging me to get this procedure done for over 3 years, I expected to have it done just after my December appointment. Surprise, surprise, DR didn't even mention it. He DID report that I was "still in denial" about my health problem because I repeatedly have said that I didn't have any CHF symptoms.

Here I was ready to say "yes, let's get 'er done" and he skipped asking. I called his offices in Feb. and got scheduled for March 13th. That was about as late in the spring as I wanted. I didn't want to be tied up with restrictions come gardening season. The peas are in, the weeds are going strong, the asparagus is up, and I'll be munching the first spears by week's end. A-a-a-h!

My Dear Husband (DH) of 37 years. He has the patience it would seem we are both missing. I have the least patience with myself - I'm a real control freak when it comes to what I can and can't do - and my lack of control post-surgery has sorely tested his patience.

We are living on 30 acres of (thanks to DH) heaven in south-est, central-est Wisconsin. God speed!

Redd


How will the ICD look...

by Swedeheart - 2008-04-21 07:04:59

Linda,

If you search google images for ICD and pacemaker (be sure your in images search) you will find a few... some of them look a little scary...usually on thin older patients.

I often look for information on the following websites as well as this one:

www.medhelp.org/forums/cardio

www.clevelandclinic.org/heartcenter

www.americanheart.org

Here is a link for common acronyms, it is helpful to print it out, I have found:

http://www.medhelp.org/health_pages/Heart/Common-Heart-Related-Acronyms/show/2?cid=78

The other thing you may want to do, is ask your doctor what manufacturer of PM/ICD he plans on using. Each manufacturer has a website with lots of information as well. For example, my PM is a Medtronic EnRhythm, and Medtronic has a lot of info on their sites about implant, what to do, heart health, etc.

Good luck! Sorry you have to wait... but you are fortunate it isn't a Emergency implant. Many here have had to go through that route.

Swedeheart

Smart Redd

by gsue55 - 2008-04-21 11:04:43

I am also living in Southeast Wi. Milwaukee to be exact..What a small world.

ICD...

by turboz24 - 2008-04-21 12:04:09

I have an ICD for arrythmia and as someone else posted, I would discuss locations for the implant with your doctor. Your choices are just under the skin, under the breast, or under the pectoral muscle.

You asked how obvious is it. Well, for me mine is visible through my undershirts, so I wear loose fitting shirts and don't go shirtless. If/when I have to have mine replaced, I would definately have it relocated.

Thanks Redd

by LindaScarberry - 2008-04-21 12:04:45

So you've been a little over a month now! Hope you are feeling better everyday! May I ask you a couple of specific questions? Can you feel the ICD working? What does it feel like to you? How long were you in the hospital? How obvious is the device under your skin? How long until you could drive? Guess it's more than a couple of questions!!! Yeah, I haven't figured out the hair washing and drying. I have short hair but it is very thick; I'll just have to figure it out. I think I'll do the sling; I am very active and I'm afraid I'll forget and raise my arm. Glad to hear I probably won't have to wear the stockings! That sounded horrible! Bad hair and then I'd have to wear closed toe shoes to cover the stockings. I'm thinking I'm going to be one walking fashion statement! But the good news is I'm still going to be walking.

Another question; told you!! What happened with your energy level and breathing afterwards? Did you notice a big difference? I am so tired and can hardly breathe!

Thanks Redd for your time! It really means a lot and I am so grateful I stumbled onto this website!

Love ya back!
Linda

you'll do just fine!

by cqmccann - 2008-04-22 06:04:22

Hey,

I had my PM put in 2 weeks ago. I don't remember much from the procedure. They gave me Versed and Fentanyl which make you sedated and forget which is nice. You are awake essentially but you don't know that you are. I remember feeling a little tugging and pressure and I think I asked for more medicine. You will do great! I used a sling/immobilizer for the first week because I didn't trust myself to not use it. It made me pretty stiff in my shoulder, which is still stiff, but I think it helped. I am still a little sore to the touch over the PM and the incision. I am pretty lean so it really sticks out, a little vanity issue I need to deal with. I feel better though. More energy for sure. I'm going to take it slow and gradually get back into activity. The doctor tells me not to lift more that 5 lbs with mt left arm and don't raise my arm above my shoulder for 2 more weeks. That is fine by me because it is pretty uncomfortable to do. Good luck and keep us posted.
Carolyn

Good luck

by jweese - 2008-04-22 06:04:24

Hi Linda,

I just came across your post. I have dilated cardiomyopathy,lbbb, chf, and ef of 30%. I had a bivent pacemaker and icd implanted in Sept 07 (could only get 2 leads in though) and then in Nov 07 to finally get the 3rd and most important lead in. Thank goodness the EP dr was able to get it in. Anyways, I have yet to see the benefits of having this device. It has not helped at all with the fatigue and still have episodes of shortness of breath. The EP dr did advise me that 30% of people don't see any benefit from it. Being only 33, I was hoping this would help with the energy level and I could return to some normal acitvity but it hasn't. So maybe in time it will help. I am hopeful that will happen!! My lbbb has improved on the EKG so that is good. At least I know it is there in case I should ever need a life saving shock! Good luck when you have your procedure. Everyone has given great advice! This is a wonderful site that is full of information.

jennifer

Rejection Meds

by LindaScarberry - 2008-04-25 12:04:26

Do you have to take any type of anti-rejection drugs after having this wonderful equipment put in you?

I'm getting more nervous as the time gets closer; I'm afraid I'm not going to feel better.

I need encouraging words from people who have had a three lead pacemaker/defib put in. I am a very positive person, strong willed and determined. I guess I'm just worried about becoming "bionic" and not feeling better.

No need for rejection drugs

by maryanne - 2008-04-27 09:04:36

NO you do not need rejection meds....the only thing they might give you are antibiotics prophylacticlly to prevent any infection...you will have a forgein object in your body not in your circulatory system....rejection medications are usually used for people who under go organ transplants. Best of luck Linda....I see Redd has given you some great information...your in the right place to be asking questions.....cheers!

surgery

by Serenitymickey - 2008-05-05 11:05:34

Linda..first thank you for taking time to comment on my post..you are so kind.
I have had my ICD for 1 1/2 tears...I use to travel a lot..not since my implant ...now I have 3 holidays set up for the summer each a week.....so I am scared about mine going off/traveling. I am also 53..but my mind is so young..at first I was angry..then as you said it's better than death. Honey I have to say my surgery went great and I feel so much better. I just put my mind in gear..to pretend it's not their..and it works...oh I have bad days I admitt...and cry and get it over...not easy...please try not to be too afraid...cause on the other end it's a chance to live..start a new make new memories..silly me I name mine Ethel...I talk to Ethel and say okay going on a picnic & swim don't let me down !!!! Now that I am starting to do traveling etc. I am scared again but Ethel can't let me down. And I am not alone anymore cause I found this site....everyone is so kind..and helpful..so when I get afraid I post a message.....you and many others reached out..and my mind is much better for it.I will keep you in my prayers...remember your never alone and how wonderful over 7,000 people are in your corner cheering you on..not many can say that. ha Take care and let us know how you are doing...God Bless you

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Member Quotes

I finished 29th in London in 2 hours 20 minutes 30 seconds which is my fastest with or without a device so clearly it didn’t slow me down ! I had no problems apart from some slight chaffing on my scar - more Vaseline next time.