Rate Response and Atrial Fib

I have a pacemeaker and atrial fibulation. My cardiologist and I decided not to treat the afib as it was mild, had no impact on my daily living (hiker and backpacker)....but the Medtronic I have automatically (I am told) goes into rate response when it senses afib. Anyone out there who can confirm this? Ron

3 Comments

Rate response

by ElectricFrank - 2011-03-07 01:03:19

Rate response is an option that can be turned ON or OFF at a programming session. If ON it also needs to be adjusted to your activity level. For someone in your good physical condition you need to be sure they are setting it up properly. Most docs have a lot of experience with people in very poor shape, but aren't too savvy as to what kind of activities a hiker engages in.

I suggest asking for a copy of the pre and post checkup report at each session. If you have any questions about what you pacer is set for or is measuring some of us here can help you understand the readings;

frank

I agree

by ElectricFrank - 2011-03-07 02:03:25

The issue is likely one of whether the RR adjustable parameters are set to optimum if it is going to be used.

There is also the question of what mode switching is done when afib is sensed. Does the RR include atrial pacing? If so how does the fibrillating atrium respond to pacing? If not then RR only paces the ventricles, which certainly improves the situation, but with the ventricular beats being dissociated from the atrial ones it can produce other symptoms.

Bottom line it isn't simple.

frank

It needs to...

by golden_snitch - 2011-03-07 03:03:44

Hi,

it NEEDS to go into rate response when you have an episode of AF. I mean, at that time your sinus node no longer takes care of the rate response because it's inhibited/overtaken by the atrial fibrillation. So, without the pacer's rate response kicking in, you would simply end up at a steady heart at your minimum setting, no matter what you do, it wouldn't rise, until the AF is over. I'm sure that's not what you want, unless you need to lay down and not move at all when you have an episode of AF. But if you just keep doing what you're doing, you need the rate response, the minimum programmed rate won't do.

Best wishes
Inga

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Member Quotes

The pacer systems are really very reliable. The main problem is the incompetent programming of them. If yours is working well for you, get on with life and enjoy it. You probably are more at risk of problems with a valve job than the pacer.