Pacemaker Syndrome

Hi from New Zealand
I have had a dual pacemaker for 12 years because I have complete heart block. I have had 11 years of no problems at all - playing competitive squash, cycling, mountain biking and running. The last year though, I have been experiencing congestion with exercise and general tiredness, not severe enough to impact on work, but i can not really do any exercise without developing congestion, coughing etc. My cardiologist is suggesting pacemaker syndrome, and may put in a third lead. Has anyone had problems develop after such a long time of having a pacemaker? I am 44
This is a great site. Cheers

2 Comments

Hi Squash fan

by mandogrl - 2009-07-11 11:07:56

When you say congestion, are you refering to shortness of breath while exercising? Have they done any tests that made them think the 3rd lead was the answer? Are they seeing something out-of-sync? (I thought that's what 3rd leads were for, synchronization)
Someone here will have some good answers for you. Hopefully the solution will be easier than a 3rd lead. (that would mean a new PM too, rite?)
good luck, and keep in touch.

Hi there

by squash fan - 2009-07-12 12:07:13

Thanks for taking the time to reply. Yes, i guess i do mean shortness of breath, but it does feel like congestion that happens with a cold, and it brings on coughing etc. They have done all the tests for heart failure etc, and think it is a sync issue - yet to be verified with an repeat echo. I have had one replacement PM at the eight year mark (four years ago), so would be a few years early if i have to have another replacement, not something to be looked forward to, that's for sure
Thanks again

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I'm 43 and have had my pacemaker four weeks today. I'm looking forward to living another 50 years and this marvelous device inside me will help me do that.