Just joined the club :)

Hi everyone,

I just had my pacemaker put in a week ago. I'm amazed how quickly I've been healing and feeling better. I didn't take anything more than Tylenol for pain, and that was only for a couple days. This all came up rather fast. I've had a complete heart block since I was born which gives me low blood pressure and a low heart rate, but I never had any troubles with it. I took a premed at the dentist because of it, and recently the standards for pre meds are changing, so I had to check with my doctor to see if I needed to keep taking it. Next thing I know I'm getting a chest x-ray, an echo and seeing an adult cardiologist who is saying "pacemaker"!!! I was shocked--I'm 30 years old and have a wonderful husband and new baby girl. I'm too young, right? Apparently not.

Anyway, all that to say I'm doing well, but just had a question. I know mine is still healing, but am I always going to feel this extra weight in my chest? Or do you just get used to it?

Jeanette~

4 Comments

it'll go away!

by Tracey_E - 2008-12-11 02:12:38

You sound like me 15 yrs ago! I also have congenital complete heart block, I got my first pm at 27. I healed quickly and have been full of energy ever since! You should find that the increased heart rate gives you a lot more energy and stamina.

For the first year or so, I was aware of the weight and my faster heart rate, but you eventually get used to it. If you have any questions about living with your pm, please let us know!

They told me a few years ago I could skip the premed at the dentist. Didn't have to tell me twice :o)

I wondered if it was in my head...

by Jillette12 - 2008-12-11 02:12:46

I wondered if it was in my head about the energy. I obviously haven't been like jumping around and stuff yet, but I've noticed that I'm not nearly as "yawny" during the day and stuff. I can't wait until this 4 week "don't life your arm over your head" stint is over and I can see what I can do! :)

oxygen is good

by Tracey_E - 2008-12-11 03:12:09

Your heart rate should be considerably higher now. Think of all that extra oxygen flooding your body now. Good stuff! :o)

You can't lift your arm over your shoulder and lifting more than a few pounds is a bad idea until the leads have been in place longer, but you should be able to do other things now. I started walking as soon as I got home from the hospital.

Welcome

by Cherthom - 2008-12-11 10:12:42

You have just found the nicest, most helpful group of people!
I don't know what I would have done without them!
cheryl

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