Needing Advice

I was diagnosed with POTS three years ago and have struggled with a plummeting heart rate. My cardiologist recommended a pacemaker today. I am 34 years old and a little nervous about the prospects of getting a pacemaker. I am nervous about how long the leads last etc, etc. I would love some advice, especially if there is anyone out there with POTS. Thanks.

5 Comments

POTS

by Pookie - 2008-11-12 10:11:07

HI.

Yes there are a few members here that have been diagnosed with POTS...just do a SEARCH...upper right hand corner.

hope this helps

and leads can last as long as 20 years!

Pookie

Welcome

by PeggyR - 2008-11-12 10:11:59

I don't have POTS, but my PM was implanted 9/5/08 -- I'm 63 years young, heart rate was down around 30. I had 45 minutes to prepare my mind for having PM, so no time for anxiety. I can only say "thanks" to the doctors for being on top of everything. I recovering well, heart rate normal and can only tell you that from what I have read almost everyone in here is very happy that they now have their PMs. Very little discomfort after implant, couldn't use left arm very much for at last 6 weeks, but considering the alternative if didn't have PM that's a minor speed bump in life. I would hope you have an easy time of it and good recovery. It wasn't near as traumatic physically as I thought it would be.
Peggy

Hello!

by scadnama - 2008-11-12 11:11:42

Emily,

I am 24 years old and I have had my pacemaker for 1 year this month. I do not have POTS, but I do have NCS. Both have similar symptoms and are often cured by a pacemaker.

Leads last much longer than the pacemaker itself. A pacemaker should last anywhere between 5-10 years and even longer in some cases.

I know that the prospect of getting a pacemaker at a young age is a difficult concept to wrap your head around. Just trust your doctors and know that we are here to support you every step of the way.

Please feel free to message me if you would like to chat!

Amanda

one young lady

by jessie - 2008-11-13 01:11:39

a young lady name of tamm and her name here is abc123she ahs pots ashe is about your age to. look it up she is quite knowledgable jessie

Only as a Last Resort

by bobad - 2008-11-13 09:11:05


Based on my experience, get a PPM only as a last resort. Ask your cardio doc if there are any other options. If your symptoms are serious, and a PPM is the only way to control them, the decision has already been made for you.

Best of luck,,,

You know you're wired when...

You are always wired and full of energy.

Member Quotes

I've seen many posts about people being concerned about exercise after having a device so thought I would let you know that yesterday I raced my first marathon since having my pacemaker fitted in fall 2004.