← Return to Pacemaker recipients: Looking for support from others

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@markjones

Thank you both! I am a little freaked out at the thought that my heart won't beat at all without some little device directing it. I don't know if the experience is different for someone that is "totally blocked" vs. one that kicks in when needed. I don't understand how they respond to different conditions and what fine tuning is needed.

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Replies to "Thank you both! I am a little freaked out at the thought that my heart won't..."

Hi there, this is shortshot80) my pacemaker beat steady no matter what I do. Doc told me that it won't stop even with a low battery. My battery has lasted for 10 years now and I have to have the battery changed end of March or first part of April. No matter what activity you do it keeps on beating. I do understand scared of something new, but if the new helps me Why not do it. Once in your life this might be the one thing that helps you. This kicks in whether you need it or not. Hey....Don't knock it just get all the info you need to understand it.
Then believe in your choice. Nancy

I have been following this discussion and have had a dual chamber pacemaker for 2 years and I am in mid sixties.
If you have had a full cardiac work up by a very good cardiac clinic and cardiologist who specializes in only heart electrophysiology, and told that you need a pacemaker to be healthy and safe, then it is something to seriously consider. Then get a second opinion by an equally good cardiologist from a different clinic. A good Dr should tell you not only how this will help you but also:
That it can not be reversed without huge risk.; the procedure has significant risks (can puncture your lung) ; the pacemaker can get infected (very possible during a future surgery) and this can cause extremely serious complications.
If someone needs a PM, then it should be an option after necessary diagnostic testing, more than one opinion and all risks are discussed. Then you will not have doubts or be surprised by negative outcomes. I wish you well.

@thankful - @Imclaugh. So well said & thoughful. If I were to find myself in need of a PM, this would be the advise I would take & consider carefully. Thank you!

Hi Nancy, @shortshot80

What encouraging words! Thank you for sharing your pacemaker story with us.

Teresa

I wish I had had your advice before I got my pacemaker. My heart rate dropped to 20. I was told I needed a pacemaker. Not much was explained to me. I am hard of hearing so pretty much rely on my family to inform me. Had I known what I know now I either would not have had it done or gone to a large hospital. My second surgery was done in Buffalo, N Y by a surgeon who specializes in pacemakers. But even with that I am not happy with the outcome.

Hello!
So sorry you have had so many issues with your pacemaker. If your pacemaker is dropping your heart rate so low, and you are not happy with the results, why not have it removed??

Good luck!
Ronnie