Is what I'm feeling normal?

Today was my first day back to work after a 4 week break given to me by my Dr. after my pacemaker implant. I work in maintenance for an apartment community so Im moving arund all day doing all sorts of things, from cleaning grounds to fixing A/Cs and appliances, etc. All day was mostly good with some moments that I felt a lil tired. Im asuming it is because I havent lift a finger for what seem like forever, until I started working then felt like too short lol.  But my consern came after I went home. I was watching tv and noticed my chest felt a lil tight. I could feel my heart beat but it wasnt in a normal way but more like my heart was heavy and my chest wasnt big enough for it. What I found weird about it is that my ears and head also felt tight like when you have a bad congestion or when you are upside down for a cople seconds and the blood flow creates preasure in your head. I felt that before during my time of work but it was on the first or second week after the pm implant. What was strange about tonight is that it lasted longuer. It dosnt hurt and besides the preasure I dont feel discomfort. Im just wondering if that is normal after these types of procedures or if I shoud be concerned and call my Dr. to have it checked out. 


3 Comments

Pressure across chest and in head

by Selwyn - 2018-05-30 09:56:15

As Robin -1 says anxiety can be a cause of these symptoms. Chest discomfort and headaches often are symptoms of anxiety. 

I trust you know your blood pressure is normal?

It is unusual for angina to occur at rest, though it can occur whilst watching something exciting ( I developed a heart rate of 130 watching the Rugby Football on TV). Certainly, chest pain on excertion should be taken to be cardiac until proved otherwise. Sometimes anginal pain will radiate to the neck. 

Selwyn

 

Good days, and not so good days

by tedd - 2018-06-03 20:28:57

I had pacemaker installed 2 weeks ago. I really didn't want it to make me feel like I was really handicapped, so I returned to work in 3 days- I even drove my car.

But the doctor instructed me: no exercise for 6 weeks; give the leads on the pacemaker time to adhere to the heart. Take it easy.

Since then, I go to work everyday, but I might stay most of the day, and on some days I would get pretty tired and leave, go home, lay down and in a few hours feel much better.

In essence, I use to be the guy who stays till the work is done. I am 68, and that was the work ethic I grew up in. 

Now with the pacemaker, I am trying to respect the procedure. There may be some who get right back on the horse after pacemaker surgery. I am going back a little slower. Take an extra nap, and rest even if I don't need it.

I have a rowing machine and love to exercise. But the doctor said no exercise for 6 weeks, I am listening to him. I will get back to exercise, but no rush now. I am a little stiff in my back and some muscles seem to be tight, but I'll be ok after a few more weeks on the sidelines.

Idon't want to deal with heart complications because I did too much, too hard and too soon.

Give yourself a lot of credit by being able to get back to work. I would consider gradually increasing your workload.  Sure, it is natural to feel tired and sore after laying around for a while. But, Throughout my life, I was always sore and tired following downtime. But I consider getting a pacemaker a big deal. I don't hesitate to answer when asked: How do you feel?   "stronger every day, but I am taking it easy; and realize I do have good days, and better days."

I encourage you to try getting stronger every day, but be knd to yourself. Take it easy, rest while you can and give this thing some time. 

Best wishes for success, and I hope you feel better.

Forgot to add...

by tedd - 2018-06-03 20:38:13

If you are taking Beta blockers, you might want to discuss them with your doctor.

My doctor discontinued them after I experienced 2-3 second waves of lightheadedness; almost blacking out. I could almost feel the wave coming over me and I would stop next to a wall for support. This eventually led to me getting my pacemaker.

Your case may be totally different, but look up side effects of your Beta blockers. It definitely worth a chat with your doctor.

You know you're wired when...

Your pacemaker receives radio frequencies.

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