Pacemaker/defibrilator

[Flames_Gimp]

I'm going in for a pacemaker implant soon and i'm very nervous and know idea what to expect.

Is there anyone here who went through this?

[Snuffleupagus]

Good friend had the combo over 20 years ago, for him it was a stop gap for a new heart as his was shot, it worked well with 2 episodes before his transplant, happy to say he's still going strong.

I was thinking about you the other day, as I hadn't seen you post lately.
We have a few patrons at the pool that tell us they have them (it would affect which side the AED pads go on depending what side they put it on) and when I chat with them about it, they said surgery was ok and afterwards the only time they feel anything is every now and then when it has to do it's job. These are pretty active people and they are grateful they get to keep enjoying swimming. It sounds like for something that is being inserted in your body, you won't notice it much. Sorry I don't have any first hand knowledge But wishing you a speedy recovery!

[monkey brewery]

My wife had one installed 15 years ago, and a replacement installed about 8 years ago. It was put in because her heart would not beat regularity (just stop every few seconds as I recall) and she'd pass out. About 1/4 of her heart beats are from the pacemaker kicking in.

One of the big issues is her fear of traveling. In the past security has been a bit of a pain (not always, but you get the occasional prick to deal with). She was in her late 30s when it was first installed, and that may have contributed to it. You have to advocate for yourself, and some gate security just don't like being told what to do, it seems. Anyway, she has a bit of anxiety now when it comes to having to explain the pacemaker or making a scene.

[Flames_Gimp]

Thanks everyone, the responses have eased my anxiety ...people with a pacemaker in for 15-20 years and still going strong? That's awesome.

I had a very close call last tuesday, pulse 30 and even wasn't registering on the monitor at times and ekg showed what they called complete heart block. They warned me that the big one is coming if I don't get the pacemaker. The awesome play of the Flames is helping keep my mind of it.

[Fuzz]

I know someone who got one at 15 or so. So going on close to 30 years, he's fine.

[speede5]

My coworker went in for a routine procedure (not sure what but not heart related) a few months ago and her heart stopped, they had to revive her a couple times, and she ended up with a pacemaker. Back at work a week later and if she didn't tell anyone none of us would have been the wiser. We're office workers but still I think that's amazing. Seems to be doing just fine.

Had to sell her induction stove and has to be careful around microwaves so it's not all sunshine and roses.

Best wishes man!

[Flames_Gimp]

thanks guys. well, had another heart attack and they have booked the pacemaker insertion next friday. Because of my age and muscular dystrophy any surgery is very risky so im very worried and close to saying forget the whole thing.

I am glad I posted here, your responses and pm's i received really helped me with this thanks so much guys. Take care

[WhiteTiger]

My ex-wife got hers around 15 years or so ago now, too. She's still around. ;D

[Flames_Gimp]

Originally Posted by WhiteTiger

My ex-wife got hers around 15 years or so ago now, too. She's still around. ;D

awesome! oh wait.you said ex wife, that could be a good thing or a bad thing lol

[Cheese]

Buddy just had one done 2 months ago. No issues and a big big help!

[WhiteTiger]

Originally Posted by Flames_Gimp

awesome! oh wait.you said ex wife, that could be a good thing or a bad thing lol

Well, if you'd asked me in the first 5 years after we broke up, I'd have said bad thing. But now, 20 years on, we've matured into an acquaintanceship, so it's a good thing.

[Flames_Gimp]

well some terrifying incidents have forced my hand to get it done sooner my heart stopped for nearly a minute 3 times since fri, eyes open totally unresponsive.

thankfully I was in icu during the worst one, so they rushed me in to pacemaker implant surgery yesterday, Home now recovering with a sore shoulder. I wouldn't wish that feeling on anyone if you ever have a pacemaker recommended, don't wait, get it done!

[Dion]

Originally Posted by Flames_Gimp

well some terrifying incidents have forced my hand to get it done sooner my heart stopped for nearly a minute 3 times since fri, eyes open totally unresponsive.

thankfully I was in icu during the worst one, so they rushed me in to pacemaker implant surgery yesterday, Home now recovering with a sore shoulder. I wouldn't wish that feeling on anyone if you ever have a pacemaker recommended, don't wait, get it done!

Glad to hear you are well and that you got the implant. Hopefully it does the trick and prevents further trips to the ICU ward.

Live long and prosper

[Flames_Gimp]

Originally Posted by Dion

Glad to hear you are well and that you got the implant. Hopefully it does the trick and prevents further trips to the ICU ward.

Live long and prosper

Thanks Dion! So far everything is working properly and i'm feeling better!

[Snuffleupagus]

Originally Posted by Flames_Gimp

well some terrifying incidents have forced my hand to get it done sooner my heart stopped for nearly a minute 3 times since fri, eyes open totally unresponsive.

thankfully I was in icu during the worst one, so they rushed me in to pacemaker implant surgery yesterday, Home now recovering with a sore shoulder. I wouldn't wish that feeling on anyone if you ever have a pacemaker recommended, don't wait, get it done!

Sorry to hear this, glad the implant is working so you can have a somewhat normal life without worry, not to pry and don't answer if you wish but what is the prognosis for the future, heart surgery or transplant? I only ask as I could put you in contact with a good buddy who had his transplant over 20 years ago and is living life like a 30 year old for advice.