Is this Normal?

I had an AV node ablation and dual chamber pacemaker in 2014 since when my life has improved considerably to the point where I forget I have paroxsysmal very symptomatic atrial fibrillation and just take my meds.  My last checkup showed no AFib at all.  However, lately I have woken in the night a couple of times with a rapid drumming in my chest which lasts for about 20 seconds and feels very alarming.  I know palpitations etc can be experienced by those who have pacemakers and wonder if this is something I can ignore.  On the other hand I read on the net it can be the sign of a failing pacemaker!  

2 Comments

be careful what you read

by Tracey_E - 2018-11-27 09:44:10

I have never heard that palpitations can be a sign of a failing pacemaker. Pacemakers don't fail. At the end of their lives they can switch modes. Palpitations are common among paced and not paced. When in doubt, check with your doctor. 

That said, are the episodes happening the same time every night? It could be the self test. They sometimes program it to happen while we sleep. 

Is this Normal?

by JoMarie - 2018-11-28 06:11:55

Many thanks for your reply Tracey and indeed I hope that is just what it is - a bunch of ectopics but just to be on the safe side, I made a note of the time and dates (about three times so far) and have made an appointment at the Pacing Clinic, so they can see what was happening at that time, and hopefully reassure me.  I do agree that sometimes, the internet can be the opposite of helpful!

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