Copd test

I'm having a COPD check, which usually lasts for 30 minutes soon and wondered if it was safe to do this with left bundle branch blockage and a pacemaker. A nurse at my previous practice said this puts the heart under too much stress. Anyone know how safe this is. 

2 Comments

ask your doctor

by Tracey_E - 2019-06-14 09:39:30

I don't know anything about the test, but lots of things put stress on the heart. The device shouldn't be a problem, but the underlying heart condition may or may not be an issue. That's a question for your cardiologist/ep.

Respiratory Testing and Pacemakers

by Selwyn - 2019-06-16 13:11:14

I have have had full respiratory testing on a number of occasions in the last year. No problem with a pacemaker. Your LBBB is of no relevance. 

Big breaths in, big breaths all the way out. Bit of a nose clip!  Respiratory testing does require you to excert yourself. The technician will go at your own pace. Don't be rushed, and get your breathing settled before starting the next test.  Some of the respiratory testing chambers can be a bit telephone box like ( if indeed they use one). 

If you require reversibility testing, this should be OK'ed with your doctor as a drug by inhalation is administered and can cause some increase in heart rate. 

Best not to have a big meal beforehand as this can restrict your chest.

 

You know you're wired when...

You always have something close to your heart.

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As for my pacemaker (almost 7 years old) I like to think of it in the terms of the old Timex commercial - takes a licking and keeps on ticking.