Bradycardia and Sleep Apnea

I have recently been diagnosed as a candidate for a pacemaker; Bradycardia is my ailment (more specifically, Sick Sinus Syndrome). My father and older brother both have been diagnosed with sleep apnea. My wife claims I stop breathing during my sleep sometimes and due to her urging I have had a sleep study session (last night) and now I await the results. As with many of you, with heart issues I have educated myself reading a lot of articles and comments from people such as in this forum. One recent thing I have discovered is researchers say there is sometimes a link between sleep apnea and Sick Sinus Syndrome. Has anyone personal experience with this? And can a SSS condition be improved, minimize or eliminated simply by wearing a CPAP?

I have noticed in my personal data gathered via a heart fitness monitor that my slow heart rate (mid-20's) while I sleep is interrupted occasionally with a spike of 60 bpm for a few seconds, then it returns back to the mid-20's. Is this normal? Does everyone have such spikes in their sleep or is it normal for someone who has sleep apnea?--EL

1 Comments

Re: sleep apnea

by El_guapo - 2007-07-04 10:07:57

i was diagnosed with sleep apnea as well, and i tried to use the cpap machine for a few wks. prior to my pm, but honestly in my case, it didnt make any major diffrence a little maybe, but nowhere near enough to curve the end result.but ya know everyones different, i may have just waited to long or something. since ive had this pm placed it has made a world difference. its just have'n to get used to this walkman under my skin now, i told my wife i feel like i had a breast implant, lol. not that i know what thats like. good luck EL
from, El Guapo

You know you're wired when...

Your pacemaker interferes with your electronic scale.

Member Quotes

I have had my pacer since 2005. At first it ruled my life. It took some time to calm down and make the mental adjustment. I had trouble sleeping and I worried a lot about pulling wires. Now I just live my life as I wish.