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I'm glad I found this topic re pacemakers. I had one implanted on August 31 and the swelling has just started to lessen. I also had pain for almost all of September - could not wear my seat belt in the car. I still have some pain (not 'bad' )but it is there if I lift too much, exercise too heavily) The pacemaker was done as an emergency so I was totally unprepared for it. When discharged from hospital I received very little information re what to expect and follow-up at home instructions!! After my first nite at home I had to go to the ER the next morning.
I was horrified when I saw the surgery site It was horribly black and blue around the whole area. I also did not expect the extent of pain for the next several days.
I have had multiple surgeries over the years and never had such a terrible time post-op. Thankfully, the pain has dissipated - I'm still aware of the unit but no longer worry like I did.
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@mtnmarge
Reference the seat belt. You don't want in aggravating the site now or in future. What I did was to lower my seat belt control at top and put the belt below my arm pit not accross it. That keeps my seat belt below my pacemaker site.
You mentioned not getting much information on your device. That should not be accetable. You should have the name of your device. Contact them by phone or their website. They will have a ton of great information on your device, what to expect, what to do or not do, etc.
The emergency rooms are trying to get you out of there. Do you have a electrophysiologist working with you? If not do you have a cardilogist working with you. Those are who you can contact also and would highly suggest you have one on your ongoing medical treatments.
You are going to have some brusing and discomfort. Did they use stiches or glue to close your wound. Were you given any information on use of ice, etc. Tylenol or other medications?
I feel for you. But my experience with ICD/Pacemaker surgery (I have had 3) was done at Mayo Jacksonville by a work reknown EP with excellent pre care, day of surgeries, and follow ups calls at home and follow up visits. I do a pacemaker check at home every 3 months and then a in office visit.