COPD oldie.

[Tpoc]

I am 86 male with COPD, I bike daily indoors when cold or wet, otherwise outside, also walk some. Generally in good shape.

Diagnosed with Afib and ectopics combined with slow HB a year ago. Put on apixiban ok and other stuff I could not tolerate. Kidneys poor so no angiogram. Docs say I’m suitable for a pacemaker in January and now getting cold feet!! I can go on the way I am but cannot exercise, get breathless and no energy. Will get worse docs say.

Anyone out there with advice?

[Feelingblessed2013]

Whether or not to get a pacemaker, is a personal decision. But I have a neighbor who used to pass out because his heart rate would drop. When he realized what was happening and the fact that he could pass out while behind the wheel, or on his farm tractor, he finally agreed to get a pacemaker. As far as I know, he has never regretted that decision. I will also say that I envy you're ability to walk and ride a bike for exercise. I am only 66, I have emphysema among other health issues. Already had a hip replaced, now looking at the possibility of the other hip being done. Both SI joints have been damaged by arthritis, as have all my other joints. The outer half of my left knee is bone on bone. I can no longer walk more that a few yards without resting. Need to use a rolater (a walker with 4 wheels) to keep me upright, as I have developed balance issues. I can't climb stairs, legs won't go up high enough without causing pain. I've also lost both upper lung lobes to cancer.

Is there was an implant or whatever that would make me mobile again, I would do it in a heartbeat.