Pacemaker

[Weejenny]

I've rescently ( mid April) had a pacemaker fitted and feel a bit vulnerable even though I've been told it's nothing to worry about lots have them fitted. When I've been at check ups I don't feel I can ask questions. Up until five months ago I had no idea I had a problem. I feel it's happened so fast I haven't got my head round it. I'm probably being silly but on my own I get upset but then I'm so grateful that my heartblock was discovered. I'd love to find someone to get reassurance from

[Wonderhorseuk]

Had mine for five years along with my valve. Not such a big worry, just need to be mindful of things like mobile phones away from your left side... not putting anything with a strong magnetic field near it etc. ... Get used to how it feels and learn when it kicks in. I have found it's important to be involved in where they put the settings. Hope it goes well for you 😊

[Weejenny in reply to Wonderhorseuk]

Thanks so much for your reply it's going to be great to chat to others that have gone through similar health issues 😊

[laura_dropstitch Heart Star]

I've had my device for around 4 years and remember feeling the same as you initially. It did take time to get used to it and get my head around everything but now I barely think about it. It's true that many people go through this but that doesn't mean it's easy, be kind to yourself and take your time coming to terms with it. Have you tried writing down your most urgent questions before a consultation? I always think that makes it clear that you have specific worries that need to be addressed and it lets the doctor address them fairly quickly.

Good luck with everything and I hope you start to feel better soon

[Weejenny in reply to laura_dropstitch]

Thanks Laura for your reply. I went for a bra fitting today as I've just been wearing a bra top lately. I found one with a padded strap it should be fine. I like the idea of being kind to myself as I live with my husband and two grown up sons so very much a mans world in our home, although I love them to bits 😊 That is a good idea to write down questions. I feel I've been spoken to at the clinics as if I know what they are talking about, which I don't really. I know I was diagnosed with stage 2 heartblock after a young doctor decided that maybe it wasn't a chest infection at all but possibly my heart. I feel very very grateful to have my diagnosis and very promptly having my pacemaker fitted, just a bit overwhelming. No history of heart problems in our family. I'm 49 I've been told young to have this problem. xx

[Hidden in reply to Weejenny]

Hi Wee jenny. I was 42 when I got first pacemaker for heart block. It was done in emergency so like you I was shocked and scared. But over time I have come to forget it's there. It did take a while but really nothing affects it. I use mobile phones on my left side 😆 and worked with a lot of equipment with no problem. I hope this reassures you and gives you peace of mind. Good luck.