Pacemaker recipients: Looking for support from others

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!

Got a pacemaker the day after Thanksgiving, had it checked twice . Can't see where it does a damn thing!!!

Of course, my fatigue, breathlessness are still there, better than ever!!!

Hi Nancy, @shortshot80

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

Teresa

Had a pacemaker installed the day after Thanksgiving-Checked 2 times. Seems to be OK but I still am fatigued, tired, huff & puff after 2 steps! So far, the pacemaker has done NO GOOD!!! I've run the gammit from cardio inversion, medication, Etc. Step in pulmonogolist:Got a slew of inhalers , cpap, nebulizer, breathing exercises, nasal inhalers, Etc. So far all have failed-still waiting for a cure since 4/2/16!!!

Hello!
I am so sorry you have been going through so much. I pray that the doctors will find an answer for you.
ronnie

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