Possible Allergy? Or something else

Hello all. Been sometime since I posted. I had a Dual lead St Jude pacer put in Oct 2017 for 3rd degree heart block. I am 34 years old female. A few months now, I will have a tingling and burning face. Sometimes a rash (lacey) will be on my left arm. This comes and goes. Does not effect my breathing or anything in that nature. My PCP assured me its anxiety, however, I then went to an allergist who said, it is not. He did outdoor allergy testing which came back only a few things, food is negative, but he suggested I could be allergic to my pacemaker. Oh, he also tested me for autoimmune disorders which were negative as well. Any thoughts on this? I am tired of doctors quite frankly. Prior to October, I had no health issues.


7 Comments

Complete

by Mugz1221 - 2018-08-09 23:33:45

I saw my doctor three times a month since the pacer. Because of everything I feared. I have had endless tests now some I believe we're done to keep me calm. I see the allergist again at end of month with a completed food diary. I'm just running out of ideas. 

Allergy and pacemaker

by Selwyn - 2018-08-10 12:22:31

Allergy to pacemakers is very rare and characterised by local reaction at the site.

From your description of your problem, you have not got an allergic reaction to the pacemaker. 

Kind regards,

Selwyn 

Could it be

by Mugz1221 - 2018-08-10 12:29:27

I have not seen neurology yet. That is the next step. Is it possible this is hormone related. I'm going on 35. And the stress of the situation could enhance it I guess

Sounds like...

by The real Patch - 2018-08-10 12:48:22

Selwyn nailed it, it has nothing to do with an allergic reaction to the pacemaker

I believe you said it all in your comment ..."Because of everything I feared. I have had endless tests"

You might try to actually treat your fears, seeking professional help if need be, and see where that leads after a reasonable time.

Admit

by Mugz1221 - 2018-08-10 13:02:15

Indeed I have had my share of anxiety since this. And sometimes yes I know other things going on are anxiety. But this I don't believe is. I can't fathom as to how it could be. 

Hormonal?

by Selwyn - 2018-08-11 13:17:30

Menopausal flushes ( do you call them flashes in the USA?)  usually are from the chest upwards. They are definately not associated with a rash on the arm. Facial hotness and tingling is possible with flushes. 

As for lacy rashes on the arm, this is open to more description for a precise diagnosis.  Livedo reticularis is the only condition that matches the 'lacy'  description. This is often associated with the cold, sometimes seen on babies and youngsters limbs. It can be associated with a variety of medical conditions, of note is hyperthyroidism ( overactive thyroid), andso is 'hormonal'. Hyperthyroidism can cause flushing and a feeling of hotness, excessive sweating, weight loss etc.. and is associated with livedo reticularis. 

I am not one for diagnosing rashes associated with anxiety, though there is the classic neurodermatitis - though this is scratch related, and self-harm. The so called ( old fashioned name) of angioneurotic oedema has nothing to do with neurosis, I am pleased to say. 

As livedo reticularis can be a normal finding, and anxiety is very common throughout humans ( and other animals), I expect it may be something else to worry about !

I hope this helps you Mugz1221. 

Kind regards,

Selwyn 

 

Unknown

by Mugz1221 - 2018-08-11 14:57:24

They have tested me over and over for diseases and cancers. I'm actually healthy besides the pacemaker. I will keep working with allergist then go from there. I'm on Zyrtec which makes me dizzy sometimes but have learned that's better than dealing with my allergies. I don't know and may never know what it is but am always grateful of the responses and care here.

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