Feeling your pacemaker beat

I’m 5 weeks post surgery after having a pacemaker fitted for heart block. Aged 45 and fit and healthy. 

At times when my PM is pacing me, I feel it really strongly in my chest, so much so sometimes you can see my t-shirt move with the beat. I have to move to sit up more upright or adjust my position so that I’m not so conscious of it as I find it really distracting. The voltage is set at 3V. At my 10 day check up, cardiologist seemed very happy. I go back in 2 months for another check up and I wonder if the voltage is too high. Has anyone else experienced this kind of thing?  Any advice would be gratefully received. 

2 Comments

Voltage

by Grateful Heart - 2018-07-28 20:07:09

When they implant our devices, the voltage is set high until our hearts get used to being paced.  After a while, they will lower the voltage settings for your particular needs.  That's the easiest place to start. 

If it is too uncomfortable for you, don't wait another 2 months...call and be seen sooner for the adjustment. 

Grateful Heart

Same thing Here

by Tonydig11 - 2018-07-29 08:49:59

I just went for my 10 day post op Friday. I am feeling  the same things you are. My Pacemaker rep said the same things you stated. It’s at 3v but it needs to beet there in the beginning and at the 3 mo checkup he will lower it to 2. As the days go on I do feel it less and less. 

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