Pace and Ablate Results Disappointing

[Islandee]

I had a pacemaker placed on August 3rd for uncontrolled atrial tachycardia and 20% burden of PAC's , couplets and triplets not relieved by medications. The ablation of the AV node was done on August 15th. I still feel strong palpitations in the middle of my back, neck and chest. The doctor told me that I shouldn't be feeling any of that if I did it wasn't coming from the heart. The pacemaker was set up and showed a regular rhythm and my heart rate shows stable. I have read on this site that so many people feel instant relief after having this procedure and I am wondering if time will help or am I stuck feeling horrible and now pacemaker dependent. This has been a 3 year journey to get to this point and I was so hopeful for a positive outcome. My main problem has been, and continues to be that the palpitations keep me from sleeping.

Has anyone continued to get better with time after their pacemaker being placed?

[BobD Volunteer]

Not sure where in the world you are but here in UK it is normal to wait at least six weeks after PM insertion before AV node ablation to allow the PM to settle and the leads to fix properly. Sounds undue haste which could have introduced new problems? Just my thoughts.

[Islandee in reply to BobD]

I live in Washington state and maybe it was too soon for the ablation. You definitely gave me something to think about. Thank you.

[Ppiman]

This is just a thought. In some people, the oesophagus presses naturally against the top of the heart, against the left atrium. I wonder, might this be transmitting the physical beat from the heart through to your back, neck and chest? In others, the diaphragm can be raised on the left side, and this can also press against the base of the heart and would be able to transmit the heartbeat.

Neither of these would be felt as palpitations, i.e. ectopic or premature beats, but just as a normal heartbeat generated, now, by your pacemaker.

Bad luck on the disturbed sleep. As a sufferer, you have my sympathies. It is awful.

Steve

[Islandee in reply to Ppiman]

It does feel more like regular, strong, beats and not as crazy as I was feeling. For the last two years I could not lie on my right side and the doctor said at the time that it could be from the esophagus. I am hoping that as the heart heals it will get better. Thank you, what you said makes sense.

[Ppiman in reply to Islandee]

I think your GP was right. I gather it’s an entirely normal and natural occurrence and totally safe.

Steve

[Buffafly]

Maybe inflammation as a result of speedy procedures?

[greenB04]

Sorry you are having troubles. I had my pace and ablation at the same time , I also felt the heart beat but in my stomach, it did eventually subside after around 3 weeks. Also, if your were sensitive to knowing when your beats or rhythm were abnormal before the procedure, you will probably always be sensitive to that. I am also sensitive to my heart beat. Give it some more time and perhaps speak to your doctor about this, maybe able to recommend something. Good luck and keep us posted .

[Islandee in reply to greenB04]

Thank you. I did see on someone's post that they felt improvements after 6 and 9 months. I have a follow up on September 14 so that should give me more time to heal and I will ask some more questions. I have a 3 lead pacemaker and maybe it's pacing more than I have had for a while. I am just frustrated but still hopeful.