what should I expect?

I just got a pacemaker yesterday. This problem started in February when I fainted twice in two weeks. Went to emergency room, 3 days in hospital ran many test, stress test, echocardiogram, etc. Doctors were concerned because I had 5 stents in 2006/2007. I never had a heart attack. They could never find a reason in February but were concerned. Nevertheless, I went from February till this past Saturday night with no fainting. When I went in this time they found my pulse at 28. In short order they installed a pacemaker Sunday morning then released me late Sunday afternoon.. I am feeling just ok, but still have moments that I feel somewhat faint(not bad). Question is, is it normal to feel somewhat 'off' after this surgery and what should I expect over the next few days?
Thanks for this forum, it is great to have a place to learn about how to live with a pacemaker from people who have them

2 Comments

Too soon to tell

by ElectricFrank - 2011-08-09 03:08:15

The pacemaker is generally left at the factory default settings at implant, and then adjusted later to match your needs. In the meantime pacing isn't optimum.

Also, with only a day behind you after the implant you have some healing to do after the surgery.

If things don't seem right in a week or so I suggest calling for a programming appointment.

Welcome to the forum,

frank

it gets better- give it time

by bloc_de_branche - 2011-08-10 11:08:05

Congrats on being so mobile after 1 day post op.
that's pretty incredible. It is totally normal to feel off, faint and even dizzy after the PM.
Your body is getting used to having the PM and your heart will have to as well. like ElectricFrank said, until your PM is adjusted from factory settings the pacing will not be at optimum. They will adjust it soon, and you will get lots of tweaks over the next bit.

Sounds like you are doing well, which is nice to hear, many of us have not had that fortunate experience with getting our PM's.

Have patience and stay active (as recovery progresses).

take care

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The experience of having a couple of lengths of wire fed into your heart muscle and an electronic 'box' tucked under the skin is not an insignificant event, but you will survive.