need to find out about this new thing

I just had my PM installed 09/27/2010. the first attempt to install failed on left side and was successful on the right. My question is Whether i will eventually be able to sleep on my stomach. In the booklet it says to sleep on side or back. I sleep much sounder on my belly and have slept on my stomach after each of my 5 mitral valve replacements. The site of the implant is healing well however the site of the unsuccessful attempt is very sore and swollen still. I am still on pain meds and I usually don't have to take pain meds even after heart surgery. How long til I start feeling more human. The bradycardia for which this was installed has been alleviated, I can feel it when the pacer kicked in which is very reassuring.
I hope someone can tell me oit is okay to sleep on my belly so I can rest peacefully

3 Comments

Yes

by Beckes76 - 2010-10-15 01:10:09

I am a stomach sleeper as well. Even when my PM was in my abdomen area I still slept on my stomach after it was healed enough. Sometimes I would wake up feeling my PM pulsing. I learned to sleep more on the opposite side of the stomach as where my PM was. When they moved it I was thrilled that I could sleep on my full stomach again.

You will feel more normal as time goes by.

Becky

Sleeping on Belly

by repwork - 2010-10-15 06:10:17

I have had nine pacemakers and about three weeks after any of my surgeries, I can return to sleeping on my belly and perform most activities normally. If you want to discuss this more, just send me a message.

same day

by 6efrau - 2010-10-22 06:10:49

I had my PM installed the same day as you. I too have been a stomach sleeper all my life and have much difficulty sleeping since the surgery. The doctor did tell me that in time I could return to sleeping on my stomach, but that it is different for each person. I have finally ventured onto my right side by placing a pillow there for my left arm to rest on. I cannot lay on my left side yet. I figure when I am able to comfortably lie on my side, then I can attempt the stomach. The doctor said just lay how it is comfortable for me and give it time.
The pain has been unbearable for me. The doctor told me again it is different for everyone. For some it is only 3 weeks for others it can last 6 weeks. Looks like you and I are on the 6 week track. I have sick sinus syndrome with heart block. I have two leads and still am not allowed full mobility of my left arm. I still have to sleep with a sling at night to ensure I don't accidently move my arm in a manner that I should not. Two more weeks of that.
I found it interesting that you have found comfort in feeling your pacemaker go off. I don't like that feeling of being reminded that my heart would have stopped once again. You see mine just suddenly stops, total flatline.
I came here looking for someone to share and understand what I am feeling. Hopefully you find comfort in knowing I am right there with you literally day by day.

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