Pacemaker recipients: Looking for support from others

That’s what I did . Mayo did my ablation . It’s always good to have a 2 pair of eyes take a look and if they feel to just wait or cont with a pacemaker . Av ablation . I wish you well . Wilson says go luck lol

So happy to hear that you’re doing great !
Update : I have decided to first , have another ablation by my new Dr , a Mayo cardiologist. and I guess if that’s unsuccessful, the pacemaker and AV ablation will be next !
Stay well .❤️

I’m now 82 years old.
I had an AV node ablation done in 2002, after that a single lead pacemaker was installed.
In 2018, I had that replaced with a dual lead CRT pacemaker. It’s purpose it’s to synchronize the rhythm in both the left atrium and ventricle. I am 97% paced! I am no longer on any blood thinners. I have occasional palpitations and SOB and am now comfortable with it.
Dr. says the echocardiogram shows my heart function is the same as it was 8 years ago, EF 35-45%, more near the 40% point!
I try to limit the amount of stress in my life and often participate in Bible study and pray daily. My usual exercise is gentle pool aerobics.

Thank you so much for your very reassuring & positive reply. I suppose it is very early days for me, a little over 1 week. But lovely to know that in time I will be back to living a normal life, gym, walking etc. It certainly is good to talk. Thank you so much.

I am coming up to a year with my pacemaker (Bradycardia). I was nervous about everything but bit by bit I learned to trust my pacemaker. I am back to the gym 3X a week and lifting weights. The weights are not as heavy as before but I am quite happy with what I am doing. I do yoga and the occasional pilates class as well. And some walking. Be gentle with yourself and don't be afraid to ask questions about new experiences. Last week was my first confrontation with a walk through security scanner. I showed my card, explained my nervousness as a pacemaker person. The security guard explained nicely that I didn't have to use the scanner if I would allow a physical search. The answer to your your question is, "Yes, all this will pass."
I have found the Medtronic patient service to be excellent. As well as online, there is a phone service. I have called several time with what I thought were 'dumb' questions. Turned out, they weren't and my queries were answered by professional and personable folks. And there is always support here in the support group.

Yes, unless you walked the walk you cannot talk the talk. The feelings of anxiety just come in waves. But then I have to think of the positives. No more awful rapid heart beats, visits to A& E and cardioversions.. In time I can go on holidays again with confidence... The pacemaker will I time feel like my best friend. Just at the moment it's all so scary & New. Thank you again. So lovely to be in touch.

I just had and know those feelings . And unless one has been there it’s hard to relate . ..

Aw thank you so so much for your lovely reply. I feel better already.i will have to come up with a name for mine. Thank you again so much. I will of course keep in touch. You are so kind

I hear your concerns and can feel them . I was 65 when I got the pacemaker and just the thought of being dependent on a pacemaker scared me . I am a nurse and my concern was my atriums are in a fib and my ventricles are working only on a pacemaker .but when I consider the last 5 years and the hell I went thro with not feeling good . Now I feel good and it’s not perfect . But it does get BETTER . All the same thoughts . What if the pacer fails me . But in 40 years of nursing I have never seen a failed pacer . So you hang in there and get thro the adjustment time and text me for support . No you won’t be anxious all your life .. this too wi ll pass . I named my pacemaker Wilson . Lol

I have had my pacemaker inserted a week ago and av node ablation on Wednesday. I feel fine physically really it's just adjusting to the fact that I am solely dependent on pacemaker. It really is scary. I have been reassured that the pacemaker is totally dependable and with regular checks all will be well. I just still have little anxious moments. Will all this pass? I really hope so as I am only 61 and don't want to remain anxious for the rest of my life.