Pacemaker implanted AV node ablated

[DawnTX]

Monday I had the rest of my surgery finished, and my pacemaker connected and AV node ablated. I have a new and different pacemaker if you did not see my previous posts. It is called.Azure by Medtronics and only approved in October by the FDA here in the states. According to my doctor prior to this, there was no pacemaker to help my particular situation, and I would’ve continued into heart failure. It is called. HIS pace bundling. Evidently it is more than I thought it was, and thought my doctor was just being nice calling it special lol. I have an app on my phone where it tracks many things as well as send my information to a clinic on a constant basis. That way my doctor and I will be notified anytime there is a situation. I just received a notice that everything is working well with the clinic and my pacemaker. I seem to be very blessed having this.

I won’t lie It has been a long week and a bit of a rough one. The insertion was not that big a deal although yes, it hurt for a couple of days. The rough part was that I am a little disappointed because I had a cardioversion in October and felt amazing almost immediately. That is not happening here although my breathing is pretty good already and no crushing chest pain for the first time in over a year.

so I am not ungrateful. I think I realized getting a pacemaker can be a little overwhelming. My emotions have been going up and down maybe because I realize now that I was more serious than I thought I was. Without this pacemaker, I was told I would’ve continued in heart failure, because nothing seemed to be helping. Afib is a monster. I look back to just prior to getting it less than three years ago and think about how great I was feeling. I am going to try to focus on feeling that way again because according to my doctor, when I am healed, I should be just like everyone else without heart issues. He told me if I should experience the fatigue and everything else of a fib. He can assure me that is not what the problem is. He is that sure that a fib has been quieted. Now everyone needs to remember there is no cure. The AV node has stopped sending signals to my heart that was the purpose of the ablation. I have a typical flutter also and this does not help that feeling. It won’t affect my heart rate, but I will feel it once in a while and might also feel a palpitation or two once in a while. I mentioned this, because I did feel my heart pounding for a few days, but I did not affect my heart rate. I have not felt it since another thing that does happen is my heart rate will go up and down because the pacemaker anticipates where my heart rate should be if I am being active it even tracks my activity. Surprisingly I have been more active than I thought.

Currently my heart rate is set at 80. Because I had tachycardia for so long in the 150s for over eight months and then dropping into the 120s until the pacemaker was implanted, anything lower would be drastic on my heart right now. I am lightheaded and a little wobbly even with the 80. Eventually, my doctor will attempt to put it down between 60 and 70. One amazing thing is there is a good possibility that my heart will get healthier now. I admit I do feel a difference today from Wednesday when I came home. My healing time is 6 to 8 weeks and it could be up to six months for everything to start feeling right but that being said there is nothing wrong with the way that my heart is working now. Finally all of the stress is off of it and it will have a chance to rest. Right now obviously there are limits such as stretching my arm above my shoulder. This is so that the leads have a chance to become better embedded in the heart muscle. The first few days were difficult not using my left arm very much but I quickly got used to doing it. Again because it is a different pacemaker. My doctor told me before the surgery that even a millimeter can throw it off I was able to work around the fact I sleep on my left side. I have a pillow and when he saw how I was laying, he said it was OK. It’s not as limiting as you first think it would be and because this is so new I discovered people were over reacting to it, such as the nurses.

If you get a peacemaker of any type and have the opportunity, speak with the tech from the company. In many ways they are more knowledgeable than even your doctor. I am very impressed with the company. I met the tech immediately after my surgery. He came in with my doctor and they did an x-ray while I was in bed to make sure it was all where it needed to be. later, I had a woman from the company come in to see me and I learned more from her. I also saw her again with my EP the other day. That is when my doctor gave me more information and stated how good all of this has gone. Again, the tech was able to quell my fears about things I have been feeling. It is not scary. If you know, some thing is normal to feel from your pacemaker.

if you have a pacemaker, try to find that company site for patients. Again, you will get answers that perhaps even your doctor cannot give you. You get a different view from the tech.

The newer pacemakers are also made for us to be able to have testing that we could not have had previously including MRIs. We all know those are used for many health issues so this is a relief. I was immediately given an ID card with model numbers of my pacemaker as well as a statement to contact my AP before anything is done such as MRI etc. there is an emergency number.

Another interesting thing is how at one time contact with magnets could actually have killed you. Now the devices are set so if a magnet affects it all it does is wipe what it was said for by your doctor and puts it to 85 for a heart rate. It does not stop, so you are still safe. I find this interesting knowing people with older pacemakers. The battery life is longer also and it shows on my app that right now it is approximately good for 13 years.

I apologize for the novel, but I want people to know, regardless of what type of afib or flutter you have, they are constantly working on helping us. A fib is so complex it may never be cured, so what they are working on, is giving us quality of life as soon as possible instead of having numerous failures of different tactics. I have already been removed from my digoxin. Right now I am still on my Metropolol and most likely will remain on a blood thinner for life which is fine with me. I know some people have issues, but I don’t seem to be having any problems with Xarelto, which I have been on from day one. If you can take blood thinners, they also have the watchman now. Not everyone is compatible with everything, but again we have come along way more than I was aware.

I have also been reminded to not focus on all of this so much because it leads to more anxiety and even to feeling things that are not really there. It really is hard to hand your health over to a device but when I think of where my health was going It was definitely the way to go.

I am telling all of you and boring you to tears probably because I just want you to know there are options. When my cardioversion failed in December, I was really about to give up. I want you to know that if you have a good doctor do not give up, and if your doctor isn’t helping, you try to find another one if you can like I did. We have to remember also that there are healing periods I know in the UK, you have them called blanking, and that was not mentioned to me as much as the fact it is what it is. Even a cut must heal, and if you think about the fact of what they have done to get me to this point, it makes sense. My chest is very achy inside not where the pacemaker is but in general. It has been quite a while since I have had an ablation, but I have a feeling I felt this way before. I am still tired and I really hurt all over but again after surgery I always get this way and often wonder what were they doing with me while I was sleeping lol. I believe the hospital bed and possibly laying for so long in one position is all that is causing the body ache. Instead of getting into a panic, we have to take a deep breath and think things out. If you cannot find an answer, that must be someone you can call on the MEDICAL side. Best of luck to everyone with afib. I am beginning to really feel hopeful, because according to my doctor, there is no reason I should not. From what I can gather when I am healed, there should be no limits to what I can do again. That being said, I probably should not try bungee, jumping and things I could not do previously lol it’s a bit like well. I’d be able to play the piano. If I didn’t know how before, I am not going to be able to sit and immediately play now lol I will be happy to be able to do simple things like stand at the sink and do dishes and to put my laundry in the washer. I have not been able to do those things or even walk across the floor without pain and breathlessness and more. I am doing them already.

COMMON SENSE is some, and we all must need when we have afib.

[Dudtbin]

not boring at all am so glad things are moving the right way for you x

[mjames1]

Thanks for the update. Very educational and encouraging. Where did you get this all done? I agree to lay off bungee jumping for now.

Jim

[Gumbie_Cat]

Not at all boring - I kept checking the forum for one of your novels! Wishing you all the best with your new heart rate. I know you will take it slowly while you heal.

I’m only at the ‘first ablation doesn’t seem to have worked’ stage, but seeing that there can be a solution even if other things haven’t helped much is really reassuring.

[Threecats]

Hi Dawn

It’s very good to hear from you with your update. I’ve been thinking of you and wondering how you were getting on.

Your poor heart has been through an awful lot, so I imagine it will take some time to recover and for you to feel the full benefit of the pacemaker. It all sounds as though things are finally going in the right direction for you though .

Wishing you all the best for your continued recovery and looking forward to more updates when you are ready TC x

[MummyLuv]

great to hear this positive update Dawn. Hope you continue to be able to do more and more x

[LPE44]

Also been checking daily for an update from you! Really glad it all worked out. Now remember to give your heart time to heal - no bungee-jumping for at least six months!!

[etheral]

👍👍👍

[ozziebob]

Phew!!! I'm really glad to see the latest chapter of your novel land in my inbox, and thankfully you seem back on form.

And good to be back with Diggy I imagine.

Hope life continues well for you.

[KiwiBlake]

Well done Dawn. Bet you feel like you've run a marathon.

All the best with you recovery and healing.

Blake

[fairyfeathers]

All the very best to you on your recovery going forwards. Be kind to yourself and take it slowly. It's all sounding very positive. x

[Declin]

Great that things are now looking so positive for you after all you've been through👍Best wishes for your recovery.Den

[reinaway]

I've just gone through this procedure and am now six months on from the start. I also have the Medtronic Azure pacemaker implanted. I would say that the it took about four months for everything to settle down and now I don't think about it much but just get on with life. Not exactly like it was before PAF but pretty much. Hope you will find it the same but just be patient.

[LadyLawson]

not boring! On the contrary very interesting. Thanks for posting and all the best.

[Electricblu]

Thanks for giving us hope Dawn. Sending all good wishes.

[dedeottie]

Thank you so much for this post. Not boring at all, quite inspiring actually.

I can feel your relief but remember that you have been through a great deal and will be exhausted both mentally and physically, so rest rest more rest now while you heal. X

[Czech_Mate]

Thanks for this. Helps us see the positive side of our individual journeys and hope for the days when things don't seem so bright.Have a good journey. 🙋‍♂️

[Afibflipper]

Great post DawTX you answered some stuff a had pondered on should this end up being my route. Glad it’s all gone pretty ok so far for you. Do keep updating on progress won’t you xx

[Afbiff]

all very interesting and informative Dawn, wishing you all the best for the future.

[DawnTX in reply to Afbiff]

thank you very much. It is good to share. Sometimes it keeps us from worrying.

[Quilter43]

Not boring.informationsl. I so far one of lucky ones with few incidents..silent AFib is mysterious ..dangerous..I had pauses.slowbeats.think why pacemaker suggested

Besides leads know little

Handed a pamphlet.seems like u have a Dr. Who informs you..great...findchoices so hard to make..aren't told enough...causes tremendous anxiety..thx.glad hope for u now..

..

.

[DawnTX in reply to Quilter43]

Just remember arrhythmia does not usually kill the biggest problem from it can be blood clots, so I hope you are on a blood thinner. That is the first thing I would suggest to anyone being told they have afib. Yes, not knowing is frightening I think we all agree with that.

My EP has been doing his job now for about 14 years. He is young and you can tell he eats up anything he can learn to help all of us. When you look at him, you would not realize the passion in him about procedures, etc. he is a doctor for all the right reasons. when they stop looking at us as people, it is time to run out of their office. My cardiologist is capable of doing much more than what he is right now but he’s been there and done it. He hands people like us over to people like my EP. It is good to have a doctor that recognizes there are new things he may not be is up with. Perhaps you would like to see my doctor on YouTube. His name is Dr. Aditya Saini. He is my EP and located at the heart institute of East Texas. That is located in Lufkin Texas, which is outside of Houston in fact, quite a ways outside. I still haven’t seen all of his videos, but I look forward to them. He can explain to you on video many things you probably want to know and learn, and he talks to you not at you. Some doctors talk is if it has nothing to do with you which is ridiculous because it’s your body and we only get one heart.

I am so glad that you were also told your heart could get better. We need to share the happiness and show others. You don’t have to settle for running back-and-forth and waiting for procedures. I will not see my EP until May now unless something changes or he changes and wants to see me. I am about an hour from his office in the hospital but once a month he comes to where I live where there is a sister hospital. He seems to think of everything to be able to work with us comfortably.

best of luck

[Nannysue1]

I've also been through thus proceedure , 3 months in now. I have the Medtronic too with the app on my phone. I'm off of all meds apart from apixaban which I'll take for life. I feel great, and can do more or less everything I could before AF .

Occasionally the pm area aches a little bit that's if I lay funnily , I'm also a left sided sleeper.

Thank god for modern technology

[DawnTX in reply to Nannysue1]

It has only been a week for me and yes, my incision from the 13th when they implanted the pacemaker has healed very well. The pacemaker was put in on the 27th. The app is quite some thing isn’t it? I don’t know how many others are in my area with this. They do a transmission once or twice a day so far I think they like to play with it. Lol, I knew it was connected to what they said it was a clinic. I did not know it was the hospital and heart institute itself. I also have a hotline number. My loop recorder went to the company, but they only report it once a month unless it was urgent. I was unplugged for several months and no one noticed so I did not feel very safe. I probably won’t be able to bungee jump once I am healed but that’s OK. I never bungee jumped before I got it either. Lol yes, I’m being silly. My AP said when I am fully healed, I should have no problem doing anything anyone else with a heart can do. He said if I have fatigue and all the other things I have been suffering from going forward, he can assure me it is not my heart. He doesn’t seem to be the type of man to make a bold statement like that as a rule and when he somewhat smiled and said things went beautifully that too, with some thing coming from him.

I do find I get tired after a few hours, but like the other things I think we need to give ourselves a break and take it one day at a time

[Goosebumps]

brilliant post, superbly written and informative and not at all boring as you feared. Really encouraging for the rest of us still suffering.

It will keep getting better for you I’m sure.

[DawnTX in reply to Goosebumps]

Thank you so much. I have an attitude in life that if I can help even one person I will do what I can. This has been a miracle for me. I don’t know why I’ve been given this opportunity, but I want others to know there is light at the end of the tunnel for us all. I’ve been till now all I heard was no cure, and for whatever reason my body has been resistant to everything. It takes the right doctor someone you feel safe with. I met this doctor because of the post lady telling me about the Cardiologist. Her parents used. It was nothing brilliant on my part I think you know when someone is right for you. I had made a list of questions and before I asked them, he gave me the answers. That was it for me. I knew he was the right doctor. I realize in the UK, it is very different and I feel terrible about that. I wish you could all have the opportunities that I have had. Please take care of yourself and thank you again for your kind words.

[SeanJax]

hope you keep doing well and the 6 month follow up will show that your heart failure recedes.

[DawnTX in reply to SeanJax]

Thank you so much for that. I think the opportunity of that happening sooner than later is because I had just gone into heart failure and it is not congestive. I also have no other heart issues. It just happened at the right time when I was being watched so closely, especially just beginning with both of my new doctors. Because I am close to Houston. It is amazing the hospitals that I could have gone to, but haven’t gone to a big one in Houston previously, it is a lot of wear and tear. Especially when you don’t feel well. It’s a three hour plus drive. I also would worry if it’s an emergency what do I do now I am not worried. My cardiologist is close to my home and if you saw his background you would know that is a good thing. My EP is about an hour away. That is a lot better than 3+. This shows you don’t need a big fancy hospital to have an incredible doctor and in my case two of them. I never heard of the heart institute of East Texas but I am so happy I have found it. You never know what little gems you might find in your own backyard. I am feeling positive that I am soon going to really be able to enjoy my life again. I promised my dog we are going to play frisbee. We have an acre of land outside and to be able to take him out and do a simple thing like play with him and walk with him means so much to me. You know they tell you to stop and smell the roses for me, it’s going to be walk and play with the dog lol just sitting outside on the porch gives me such pleasure. Be good to yourself and don’t take yourself for granted because life can change in a heartbeat as we all know

[2learn]

Hi, I had a pacemaker inserted Dec 2021. All was v good for about 2 wks and then I developed pacemaker induced tachacardyia which knocked me out and I needed double ablation to fix. Lots of tech to be aware of and wary of, such as induction hobs, iphones, various equipment used by dentists, basically anything with a magnet. My local hospital's MRI machine was too old to work with my new pacemaker so I cannot have MRI scan even though I had a stroke. Mine's set at 60 as my pulse was too low. Hopeful over time yours will be adjusted down a bit. good luck

[DawnTX in reply to 2learn]

hi thank you for sharing. And yes, there are many things to be avoided thankfully, not as many as there was was I am very lucky my app on my phone is Bluetooth enabled and connected to my heart Hospital where I had my surgery. I did not realize that is who is monitoring it 24 seven and I also have a hotline number for any questions 24 seven. It is not so much the pacemaker as it is the HIS pace bundling that evidently makes this unique. You would really have to read about it. I can’t explain it although sometimes I feel I could get a medical degree lol.

my app follows everything including my activity. Some information that I input is only for me on my phone. There is nothing secretive, lol just notes you may want to give to your doctor when you see him and weight and other vital signs if you choose. There is even an educational section on the app, if they would be any problem with my pacemaker, all I have to do is look at the app because it has a great big green checkmark telling me everything is good and I am connected. If anything gets picked up by them, my EP and I will get a call. I also have a card to present if I am setting off an alarm or anything else is needed. Before anything can be done to me. They need to clear it with my doctor and his information is on the card. It really is some thing, isn’t it? I find it’s still a little bit creepy and overwhelming to have this in me but I cannot believe I can feel this good less than a week after this was put in and activated.

Thank you for sharing your information

[stargazer52]

hi Dawn

Your chat was not boring at all. I totally have sympathy with your symptoms as I was exactly the same. I had my av node ablation 3 weeks ago and also felt like you at the start.

I had my pacemaker checked last week and all is good. I was worried because I kept getting chest pains but on the recordings they said it was great.

They turned me down from 80BPM to 70, they tried 60 but that made me dizzy so I’m going back in a month for them to try again.

I feel so much better and nowhere near as breathless and i feel stronger gradually. I think I expected to be ok straightaway.

I suppose I’m telling you this so you can look forward to improving all the time albeit slowly! At least I don’t feel like passing out whilst walking from the living room to the kitchen and I can stand and make a meal without feeling as if I’m going to die!

Wishing you a happy steady recovery.

xx

[DawnTX in reply to stargazer52]

Oh my goodness I could’ve written what you did. Yes for me it is laundry and dishes and yes meals. Prior to Monday to walk anywhere in the house there were times I felt blinded along with being nauseous and extreme chest pain etc. just the act of standing up, could do it as you mention

I still have a little bit of chest pain and between my shoulder blades. Even last night I had squeezing beneath my ribs or that’s how it feels. Nothing like it had been earlier in the week. Yes I am down to 80 right now because I had had heart rates in the 150s then lowered by digoxen to the 120s. Even at 80 I have been lightheaded although I noticed a difference yesterday for the better. Right now I do not see my EP until May unless he calls for me sooner. Normally he would be turning me over to my cardiologist however I have been told because of this pacemaker etc. he will remain hands on as well as the cardiologist.

I am off one of my meds the digoxin. He has me on a half dose of metropolol succrate XR now. I love the idea of coming off some meds as well.

I am so happy you wrote because you are the first person that I know who has just had similar procedure and you were telling me you felt like I did. It’s good to know that the pain is somewhat normal. I was just thinking that being type two diabetic, maybe drawing out the healing a little bit longer. I am very impressed where he put the pacemaker and how neat it looks. I am not going to have much of a scar. Did they give you how long it will take for healing? I am told up to eight weeks for things like lifting, and putting my arm above my shoulders. Overall about six months and I should be like everyone else with a heart that works. He also believes there is a very good chance. My heart will get stronger now. Again, thank you so much you just made my day.😊

[stargazer52 in reply to DawnTX]

I’m glad you said about chest pain and shoulder pain. I thought I was imagining it as they said they couldn’t see any abnormality when they checked my pacemaker. It must be just the healing as we have had part of our heart burnt away! My scar is amazing and it healed very quickly about a month or so.

Btw they stopped my bisoprolol and diltiazem immediately. I Will still be on blood thinners though I haven’t had a problem with them so far.

[DawnTX in reply to stargazer52]

he stopped my digoxin. I am still on metropolol but half the dose I was on. Yes he was quite honest that I will probably be on blood thinner the rest of my life and like you I’ve had no problems. It’s nice to know. They also have a back up in the event of issues although I am not sure if you can get the watchman once you have a pacemaker. I think we are making the right choice thinking as we do about our healing process. We cannot expect it to happen overnight. Even when you cut your finger it takes time let alone what we had done. It is very exciting to hear from you because we have so much in common with this.

[Hylda2]

So glad all going well did they tell you your escape rhythm?

[DawnTX in reply to Hylda2]

I have not heard that term. What is it?

[Hylda2 in reply to DawnTX]

After they have done the AV node ablation it is the hr you have left to get to a hospital if anything goes wrong

[DawnTX in reply to Hylda2]

I have not heard of that however, with the hands-on 24 seven of my hospital etc. it may be something just built in with them. The good thing also is that my cardiologist and the hospital is about 15 minutes from my house, so as long as I know, something is not right in there, thankfully I will have time to get help. You have mentioned some thing that no one else talks about the what if factor. What if something goes wrong with it? It is electronic kind of sorta and I don’t always have faith. In those things I mean who has not had some thing break down? I still have much to learn about this, but I am not going to get overly into it, because just like having a Kardia and other items, you could drive yourself crazy. I might check to see my activity once or twice a day. Otherwise I don’t go into the app. I get a text message when they transmit to the clinic as a check in each day. Honestly, I am not sure how often they do that right now it seems to be twice a day my local tech working with me is young and very bright, and as I mentioned previously, sometimes they seem to know more than the doctor, my EP has enough to think about with everything inside of me lol what is amazing is that I have discovered the majority of EPs not only have their medical, but many of them have gotten into IT types of degrees, which makes sense with the tools of their trade these days.

thank you for writing I love learning from everyone here. We are all different, and evidently what I have is really different. From what I can gather previously the closest too it was bi-ventricular but without going in over my head, I did not really question the doctor. Whatever it is, that makes me unique lol that is their word not mine. This pacemaker is the answer for me. I am going to keep the faith and be appreciative. I guess that shows you’re never too old to learn. 😊

[Hylda2 in reply to DawnTX]

I’m 80 this year, agree it’s a whole new language

[DawnTX in reply to Hylda2]

Thankfully, I enjoy this stuff but I am going to stick with the basics and let the doctors deal with the rest with the techs. It is good to understand about what is in your body and how it affects you. I also really enjoyed reading about my new toy lol I was very surprised the things I learned in the hospital about what a big deal this was. That is how my EP is though. He is humble and quiet and brilliant, as well as passionate about his patients . I believe in the not too distant future, his name is really going to be recognized whether he wants it to or not. I said that to the tech and she agreed and said he already is very much published. I am still going through YouTube because I found him there accidentally, and it’s good to watch him.

[stargazer52 in reply to DawnTX]

unfortunately I don’t have a residual HR which worries me no end! I asked what if? But was told they’d never had a a pacemaker fail in either of their careers ( not much reassurance there)

When I went last week for a tweaking they said your heart is amazing and it can find a way to send a signal , my sinus node is still working and firing away in the background.

Tbh I decided I’m not going to worry about something that might not happen as these days anxiety doesn’t help me.

[DawnTX in reply to Hylda2]

thank you for teaching me about that. I will put that on my list of things to ask about. 😊 they don’t realize with smart people I know on here.😊

[4chickens]

sounds really positive

[DawnTX in reply to 4chickens]

I know it was long I tend to go on because I find it exciting that they are finding new ways to help us. I think the big focus needs to be on quality of life and getting us there sooner than later. Why should we need to go through temporary fixes for years? No a pacemaker is not fun. I can already see that there are things you need to put into your head to be aware of nothing drastic. These pacemakers are different from the old ones. There are safety features built in that did not exist prior such as exposure to magnets. Now it is made to react when something happens to the data. Your physician has in your pacemaker, and it will bring your heart rate to 85 until the magnet is removed from the area. You are not going to die it’s not going to stop your pacemaker. Obviously, the best thing is to avoid some items. Cell phones still need to be kept away from the side where your pacemaker is. I was blessed to be given this and I want other people to be aware of it. This is just one company the first one to make this type of HIS bundling, etc. from what I can gather that is what makes the difference here you know the other companies can’t be far behind. Light at the end of the tunnel. That’s what I want to see for everyone. 😊

[JudyMarieC]

A very interesting and informative post. Best wishes for your recovery.

[DawnTX in reply to JudyMarieC]

Thank you I know it was long and boring. I’m just trying to show us all that there is hope in each day new things are being created for us.

[DKBX]

Helpful and reassuring for me since I think I may be headed down the same path for the ‘nuclear option’ as my NP calls it. After five ablations and six cardioversions and so many different drugs, we’ll try one more thing to ‘fix’ the atypical atrial flutter and then go ‘nuclear’. Your post came in time for me to be ok with that path. Keep posting your progress please.

[DawnTX in reply to DKBX]

I am so glad I made you feel a little bit better but I need to tell you this does nothing for a typical flutter because I also have that. That being said, I think I may have felt it once or twice but not like I did. You can also not fix either of these things, so I don’t know why he is using that term. It’s very misleading to you I think. I’m also not sure about the nuclear part of things. It is the HIS pace bundling that makes my pacemaker unique as well as the app where 24 seven I am being monitored by the hospital and they let me know when they transmit it. I also have a hotline with questions, etc.. The wiring of the leads is different. Before it was done my AP told me it cannot be even a millimeter off or moved which is why no lifting your arm at Cetera, in fact, they sent me home in a sling. It will take several weeks for the leads to anchor into the heart muscle. First, it will try to get rid of it and then cover it with membrane. Our body does that with what it considers a foreign object . This did not surprise me because my daughter had a needle dropped and left inside of her. It was more invasive to try to get it.

My second cardioversion did not take at all even after three shocks. I am thankful that both my heart doctors are on the same page about not repeating mistakes, which they consider failures like my cardioversion. They don’t want to waste our life trying, temporary fixes again and again. I, like that idea I don’t want the disappointment that I had with my second cardioversion, or even the failure of my second ablation let alone my third major one we take a chance no matter what we do, but my doctor is so passionate about quality of life and he doesn’t look at us a certain way because of our ages. I’m not sure why I got so blessed but I am grateful.

FYI here it is less than a week and yesterday I woke up feeling so much better. I think quite a bit of what I was feeling. Might be something many of us feel after surgery. Our bodies are traumatized plus laying on the tables and beds, and being maneuvered around while we sleep lol somehow I knew it had nothing to do with my heart.

Please keep us in the loop about you. Don’t put it off when they offer it to you when it was first mentioned I was about to say absolutely not. My doctor did not want to do another ablation because of so much scar tissue already. He really did his homework before he even met me. You can get him fired up when he talks about multiple procedures. I get the feeling the hospital is not pleased that he won’t do them. As he said sure, he could make lots of money for everyone, but he believed for me I had had enough as had my heart. I was at the beginning of heart failure. According to everyone in the hospital, there is a very good chance. My heart is going to get stronger now we all have to remember there are no cures for a fib and they can’t make promises but I believe if you were going to have a fib this is the time. Best of luck with everything.

[stargazer52 in reply to DawnTX]

my EP/ cardiologist wouldn’t do an ablation at all on me . He didn’t think it would work. I said oh I’ve read people can have few and he said exactly!, with your heart I don’t think it would work and I was getting worse quite quickly. I agreed to the pace and ablate and am so glad I did as the doc said my heart may get stronger too

All the best Dawn xx

[DawnTX in reply to stargazer52]

I am so excited for you. We sound like twins and you sound like you got a great doctor. In the beginning, I was scared of what it would do to my life but then I thought about what little life I had because of the way I felt. This is our second chance let’s celebrate our new beginnings. 😊❤️

[stargazer52 in reply to DKBX]

I also am so glad I had it done. I joke with my family and friends that I am bionic now. I’m three weeks on from the ablate. I had my crt pacemaker fitted before Christmas.

All is healing nicely, both procedures were nowhere near as bad as I’d imagined and the staff were amazing! They helped me keep calm, I was so worried as it’s a very final procedure but I’m glad I had it done and I can feel the benefits of it.

[DawnTX in reply to stargazer52]

I feel the same as you already. They put the pacemaker in on the 13th and had me heal for two weeks. I had the ablation and connection done on the 27th so it’s almost a week. I have been calling myself the bionic old lady lol unfortunately not everyone is old enough to remember the bionic woman lol.

I am still paranoid about my left arm etc. I sleep on my left side and for some reason although I am a righty I have found I use my left hand for many more things than I thought.

I still have some tightness under my ribs and a little bit of breathlessness once in a while, but not like I did even Monday morning. More of my pain seems to be body ache all over. It’s not from the ablation area. It is the muscles I think once that goes away, I will feel much better. Please keep in touch. Let me know how you are doing. 😊

[stargazer52 in reply to DawnTX]

yes I’m the same, sometimes more breathless than others but definitely much better. I don’t even think about my left arm now but they did say take care for 3 months. I can’t seem to find nannysue.

It’s so good to talk to you!

[DawnTX in reply to DKBX]

also check out nanny Sue I have heard from her now and she has had this for three months. I feel as though I found my twin and both of us are very positive about everything right now. If I can make you feel better, then two of us should make you feel even more so. 😊

[stargazer52 in reply to DawnTX]

thanks, I decided to have the procedure in the end for exactly the same reason as you. I had no life, put off going anywhere. Now I’m much more positive.

xx

[DawnTX in reply to stargazer52]

Later last night I started not feeling great. Since I woke this morning, it’s been the same but I think again I need to remember it’s been just one week. I don’t have local pain. It is the pain under the ribs and just generally not feeling good. I am a bit breathless today and exhausted from doing nothing. I did not sleep well last night so that could be why I’m tired lol. Not sure what I’m feeling. Palpitations or flutter. Usually I know the difference. I was told this did nothing for flutter so I have to keep that in mind but I was also told it’s not a big deal. My heart rate is also up in the 90s from doing nothing I was outside and walked in that should not boost my HR. I will check it in a while to see if it drops. Did you also have this in the very beginning? Thank you for your support.

[stargazer52 in reply to DawnTX]

hi Dawn

I did feel very tired, fatigued and I had pain in my chest but not particularly under my ribs. I also forgot it was only a week or so since I’d had it done.

My team is great and told me if I was worried at all to ring them . I think maybe you should do that. It made me less anxious which helps a lot. They know you and have all your details. I had my pm checked after 2 weeks and all was well.

I do feel progressively stronger but still get episodes of breathlessness, nowhere near as bad as they were. I believe I’m still healing as it’s not quite 4 weeks yet.

I would definitely ring your pacemaker clinic for reassurance and if it is anything they can sort it straightaway.

Let me know how you get on. It’s a scary journey we’ve not quite finished yet xx

[Cha275rL]

Oh Dawn, I’m so pleased for you. You really have been through the mill, and now you’ll be a better and more relieved version of yourself. Well done and really encouraging. Thankyou. xx

[DawnTX in reply to Cha275rL]

Thank you for your kind words I don’t consider myself different than any of you. In fact, I see so many who have really suffered. Since coming on this site, I have been treated very well and given great information. Now it is time for me to give back and the way I feel I can do it best is to give you hope from a personal perspective. When all you hear is no cure, how can you be upbeat and positive? When you can’t be it’s only going to take more of a toll on your health. I just wanted to give a new tool for people to look up and learn about just so you know it’s out there because one of your own now has it. 😊

[JerrysGirl3]

I want your hospital and techs lol. I can't even imagine getting 1/100 of the info you are getting. Consider yourself extremely lucky to have such concerned and professional doctors. Our local hospital has all newbies just out of school. Not very reassuring.

[DawnTX in reply to JerrysGirl3]

I don’t know where you are in the states. I am in a little town about 3+ hours outside of Houston four hours from Dallas, so you would not expect to find what I have for doctors. Houston has giant city blocks of every major top rated hospital you can think of, I have gone to one of them and it was because of there that I found this doctor. The hospital itself was incredible as was the majority of the staff. I had a problem with my big shot doctor. That being said, that is what drove me to find a new one, and I decided I wanted to be closer to home. I’ll be honest I thought I was settling for a second rate hospital and more. I originally planned on seeing a different doctor and let me call it a wealthier suburban where I knew I could find top rate doctors. I like my cardiologist and he threw me a curveball, asking me to meet with the EP he works with. I agreed out of respect, but planned on a second opinion with the one I had chosen. Imagine my surprise later when I compare the profiles of the two and discovered, they are almost identical. Then I had a second meeting with my EP prepared with a list of questions. He wanted me over that day because before I asked the questions he told me the answers. I am not easy to deal with. I worked on enforcement and I am used to asking questions and getting answers. by the time I left the doctor, I knew I didn’t need a second opinion and I knew I was getting a pacemaker. He wanted me to try digoxin for a month and then we would meet again. Which we did only to go over the final plans, and for him to tell me more about this very special pacemaker, I have. If you did not see earlier, I mentioned it was only approved for October 2022 by the FDA here.

My doctor is young so do not knock the young ones fresh out of school. To become an EP they are not just new doctors. They became doctors and continued, and then continued again in education. They had to become Cardiologists besides EPs and many of them including mine also have IT degrees, which makes sense when you think about the tools of the trade these days, including pacemakers, and other devices. They also are still excited about stuff and have open minds that some of the older doctors do not have. Many revert to ablation and cardioversion and medicine without looking and thinking outside the box. Many also look at age and put us in a box marked old, /who cares about them. That is my opinion only. A big fancy hospital is great but it’s all about your doctor. My hospital has only 146 Beds. When they implanted my pacemaker, I was placed I’m PPU which is a step down from CCU. It had only been open three weeks and I was treated like a queen. I had a private room TV and all and my own bath and shower etc.. What I like about this concept is they pretty much leave you alone unless you need them, except for the usual, medicine, meals, etc. we are not children so it’s nice to just be able to rest. It was all so nice because I have been there so much the last three months like the bar Cheers, lol everyone knows my name. It is like old home week, and it feels good even in the Cath Lab where they do the procedures of the heart, I had the same nurse and others and the same anesthesiologist.

well, you can check out online and see YouTube videos of my doctor the EP. I just told someone else I don’t think I told you. His name is Dr Aditya Saini besides EP he has all kinds of letters after his name lol I have watched a few of his videos and want to watch more. You will notice he talks to you not at you in case I didn’t say that earlier. I’ll bet you have a doctor like him nearby, you just haven’t found him yet 😉

[JerrysGirl3 in reply to DawnTX]

I have found a great PA. Left the GP for him in the same practice lol. Found a rheumatologist by accident who takes the "complicated " cases - his words. He was great. Have a good Neuro. Hate my leukemia doctor. Dislike the endo. Cardio is very nice but not quite sure he is good with issues. They don't listen. They don't "hear" what you are saying. I have suffered for years...hoping with the three doctors above I will be able to get things done now.

The "hospital" I talk about. Even the doctors laugh when they talk about it. It's a joke. For some reason they have attracted the worst and least experienced doctors. It's a nightmare. Even their labs and radiologists are bad. We have so many different medical "groups" and no one will talk to the other! It's really disgusting - like one group is better than the other. They all suck!! People say to me they can't believe I survived my burst bowel thst almost killed me in 2015 at that hospital. ! Doctor went on vacation the next day and left me with colostomy and wound vac, under the care of 5 residents who thank God worked well together. I still can't figure out if both he, and my big city thyroid doctor in 2012, saved me or destroyed my life. Do you listen when Nurse whispers to you in the wound clinic "don't let him do your resect(after colostomy placed) !" And you don't know if it's because she doesn't like him or if it's true. 😳😳. So you go ahead with him and suddenly you don't have a sigmoid colon anymore and he's the nastiest doctor and you fall out of bed because you're trying to reach a toilet and NO ONE is answering the call bell, and the fall doesn't even make it into your hospital record !! Bruises and all!!

I read about everyone's issues, most worse than mine. But when you can't even find a therapist because they're all taken, nonetheless all the good doctors, it's a problem.

[DawnTX in reply to JerrysGirl3]

wow what state are you in funny, the hospital I am going to now scared the heck out of me that I was going to have to go there in an emergency. Unlike you I had not dealt with them firsthand yet. My cousin was in an accident and we went there, I was so impressed with everyone that is why I picked a doctor out of there. That is very sad that they seem to take the doctors no one else wants. I know they were doing things with nurses including taking them before they were even finished nursing school and had certificates. I don’t know what to say to you about your hospital. It’s all about your doctor not the hospital as you have pointed out. Do you not have any other options for hospitals? Just dealing with leukemia. I know it’s hard enough never mind all the other things. One of my best friends, battles leukemia and is in treatment right now again. Many complications have hit him because of the leukemia. Sending healing prayers and thoughts I wish you were in Texas. He would be on your way to help I think. 🙏🏻😢❤️

[JerrysGirl3 in reply to DawnTX]

I'm in NY Long Island which has gotten so expensive imagine that doctors can't afford to live here and people are also not nice. The nearest decent hospital is 1-1/2 hrs away. I've already told my husband I'd rather die on the road then go to that hospital in an emergency. I wish I had a Mayo Clinic or John's Hopkins 🙁. And now possible Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis. Raynaud's syndrome added in to my past stroke, breast cancer and thyroid cancer I can't imagine going forward. I'm putting my chips on the rheumatologist who I really really liked.

[DawnTX in reply to JerrysGirl3]

I would make that trip an hour and a half. I did over three hours to Houston and the next closest is well over an hour for me. I travel over an hour to my heart hospital and EP. Until now it’s crazy everywhere I lived. I had a great hospital around the corner from me believe it or not. With the attitude of dealt with from your neck of the woods I’m not surprised no doctors want to be there. I just sold my condo in South Florida. I was surrounded by people from your area, and I have never met such a selfish and mean group of people. They attacked my service dog among other things, I could write a book when they show up as snowbirds they ravage the stores with their meanness. I always say the workers should get battle pay during snowbirds season and sadly many of them decided to stay and not go back to New York. I almost lived in Long Island. I was married to a pilot And even back then it was expensive and I considered it most of the areas rather dumpy that we need to live in because of the airport. I’ve got some great people I know from there I don’t mean to offend them but 20+ years of dealing with them was more than enough , the situation with my dog and threats of breaking in and taking and killing him was enough. If you saw the complex, you would not believe those kind of people live there. Six pools, a multi million dollar. And a place on the golf course and so much more but it’s not enough for me to stay there. I am in Texas now. Good people down to earth nonjudgmental everything is expensive, but you could buy here for what my H away fees for a month.

Here I was thinking you were in some rural area. Wow what a disgrace. I’m originally from Boston, so I am spoiled by always having the best hospitals and doctors.

With your health issues it sounds like you really need to rethink and even move if you can and I know that’s really hard to do both economic and otherwise. I feel for you Florida is getting the same way for me to buy another area but it’s next to impossible. Even to rent would be several thousands a month. Then the place I lived in, was struck by an A3 tornado during the hurricane thankfully, I was already gone. I don’t wish ill on any of them, but it makes me wonder if they attracted that weather.

When I first bought there, it was so different, but sadly most of my neighbors were older, and had passed away. Either their family took over and they were a different breed or they sold it.

I wish you well. You have to choose your battles with your health and find which doctor is the most important to you right now, while keeping an eye on your heart.

[JerrysGirl3 in reply to DawnTX]

DawnTx. Our rural town was taken over by city people during Covid. Our Main St houses all the big name jewelry and clothing stores now. Main Street is dead. Long love Main Street. My grandson -4-1/2- is keeping me here. My love for him is boundless even tho he parrots at times words that could only have come from his parents - my daughter and her husband. I have to stay to keep him on the right path. I love him so much. I will not leave him to her. She is not a good person. Only visited me once in the hospital after thyroid surgery after I told my husband I didn't want anyone to come cos I was so sick, but they came and stayed at the hotel my husband was staying in, went out to dinner and a night on the town, and had a place to sleep. Didn't even say goodbye. No one has ever been there for me. Ever. But somehow this piece of strength just continues on, by itself, inside me, keeping me alive and going. With my mother passing in Sept 2022 I now have no one who really and truly cares. Can't move to Texas - politics and all, just like I refuse to move to FL. No offense to anyone. A nice little cabin in the woods with a dog and a cat would suit me fine. I'd probably cure myself !! lol!!!!!!

[DawnTX in reply to JerrysGirl3]

you don’t have to get involved in politics or anything here. I am not in the big city. That is why I love it here. We have an acre of land. I have yet to meet my next-door neighbors. We have been here a year. I have not had anyone bring up politics anywhere that I go. If you go up to Dallas, it might be different and Austin I know for a fact how do you become political. I am in a nice place where people chitchat with you while standing, putting gas in your car or buying groceries. I understand you have your grandson there. I also understand about children as my daughter has not seen me for four years almost 5 sometimes I miss her but honestly, then I think of whenever I was with her and how she treated me and I realize there really is nothing to miss. I have two cousins one in Florida and the one I live with and a best friend in Florida. That was always there for me. Do you know what they say? You can pick your friends not your family. We have enough to deal with abuse is not acceptable whether it is mental or whatever. I only see Texas because of the medical care but Massachusetts has it in Boston. You can’t beat a hospital like Mass General. I hope you find somewhere you can be happy best of luck.

[mrgwair567]

Beautifully written Dawn! So informative! An inspiration for us all! Sending you good wishes for a speedy recovery ! Regards Lynne x

[DawnTX in reply to mrgwair567]

thank you that is why I shared. We all need inspiration and hope. Today is not the greatest day for me, but it may have nothing to do with this. I’m not sure yet we all know we have good days and bad when it comes to health. I was told I may occasionally feel some thing and my flutter is some thing I will feel if it acts up, and not to worry about it the pacemaker does nothing for that in case others did not know. We all have to hang in there together.