diaphragm stimulation

Hello Everyone! I am new to pmclub and would like and appreciate any feedback I can get. I have had my pm for about 4 weeks now. I had to have my atrial lead repositioned only hours after having surgery due to diaphragm stimulation. I did well for about two weeks then started to notice it happening again. I have had three adjustments to it since. I can't sleep on my stomach at all and occasionally if I am leaning forword or laughing I still have the same problem. My cardiologist said I was so difficult he would not try again and suggested I either live with it or go to an EP specialist and see if they could try to place the leads better. He really did not know if they could do any better. I am not sure what I should do. I really don't want to do this again if it can't be improved. The PM tech suggested I go for the consultation due to my age (41). Any suggestions or advice? Ever heard of a simular situation? Thanks

4 Comments

definitely seek other treatment

by sam78 - 2010-08-22 11:08:03

That is CRAZY! You totally should seek care from an EP specialist. That is not something you should just "live with". The lead needs to be moved if you are getting diaphram stimulation.. it could result in permanent damage to your phrenic nerve which is what obviously controls your breathing.

What type of stimulation?

by cruz - 2010-08-23 08:08:18

I had what they referred to as "hiccups" in my diaphram. They said it was due to the lead touching a nerve. It was so bad they had to call the tech in shortly after the procedure. He made some adjustments that helped. It still starts if I get into certain positions while trying to sleep or even after I eat a really big meal. I've been back to the EP 3 times and I've told the tech each time that it will occasionally start up. I've been told to "change positions" and it will stop. They had a difficult time with lead placement with me too and he said the placement was not "ideal"...by the way, he's an EP Specialist at a very good hospital. He said if this lead doesn't work, the only alternative is a procedure where they go in through an incision in my back to place it differently. I had chalked it up as something I have to live with. Curious to know what you find out.

EP

by Tracey_E - 2010-08-23 08:08:52

I agree, see an EP and get another opinion. Diaphragm stimulation can happen but I've never heard of anyone who can't have it positioned elsewhere. Time to talk to a specialist! All EP's do is pm's and ablations, they are cardiologists with an advanced specialty in the electrical system.

Hicupps too!

by Tman53 - 2010-08-24 04:08:46


I also had the same problem with the nerve stimulation. I was told the only alternative was to go in through the rib cage as well, since the PM is at the lowest setting. I waited and it seems to be getting better even though it does kick in in certain positions and after eating a big meal. I have had it six weeks now.

You know you're wired when...

You get your device tuned-up for hot dates.

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