Pacing all the time

Had PM in July of this year. My cardiologist recently asked me why my PM is pacing all the time. I was under the impression it was supposed to pace if heart rate went below 60. The electrophysiology nurse could not give me a satisfactory answer and said if I wanted it adjusted to come in. I was there last month and no changes were made. Its not my call whether I want an adjustment made or not. I am so frustrated at lack of information. I am concerned that if it paces all the time the battery will wear out sooner rather than later. Its only been about six months now but I will make an appointment to see the surgeon who implated the PM to see if I can get some insight, although I'm not optimistic since he was cold and uncommunicative after the surgery. The lack of patient education makes life more stressful and frightening. Has anyone had a similar experience? Thanks

6 Comments

Weird

by ElectricFrank - 2011-12-09 01:12:57

Having your cardio ask YOU why you are pacing all the time is hard to believe. If you have any choice I would start looking for another facility to handle your pacer. Otherwise, you will have to learn how to get aggressive with them. First off let them know you are losing confidence in them.

As for pacing near 100% that isn't uncommon. A lot of us are. While it does affect the battery life most pacers will give you 5-7 yrs even a high pacing %. The issue is why you have the pacer, which determines what kind of activity is needed to support your heart.

Another possibility is to request (or demand if needed) to be given a copy of the pre and post programming report at your next session. Some of us here may be able to deduce what is happening from the readings.

frank

Total paced

by PeterG - 2011-12-09 03:12:30

H I am paced at 100 per cent as I was told my heart was not any longer strong enough to work on its own, so a little shock keeps me going. I have a Medtronic which is ccming up to 7years and I am down for a review next April as the battery is beginning to drop voltage. I accepted from day one that it had to be that way and it has never gave me cause for concern.
Peter

I love to hear these docs stories

by ElectricFrank - 2011-12-09 09:12:36

A pacemaker deals with electrical conduction problems in the heart, not its strength. You can pace a weak heart all day and it is still just as weak. Or you can have a strong heart muscle that just isn't getting the message and it is still useless. Give it a tingle and it comes on full bore.

I can understand that docs will use descriptive language to help a patient understand, but I find too many that believe their own stories. That gets scary.

cheers,

frank

people that have bradycardia

by biceps72 - 2011-12-10 02:12:39

generally have an atrium pacing between 50-100% of the time. As Frank stated we need a little "kick start" and then the heart works perfectly. My pm paces around 85% of the time in the atria but 0.4% (basically never) in the ventricle.

I would not worry about pacing %; I don't!! BTW I am a worry kind of guy but getting over it when it comes to my PM.

PM Pacing

by KatrinaM - 2011-12-24 08:12:37

I too am paced 97% of the time, it makes no difference to me as long as it keeps things ticking merrily along. That's what the machine is there for. What I would be concerned about is the lack of confidence and info from your doctors. If you are not happy - CHANGE! I did and it made a world of difference to me, I was initially treated by a great electrophysiologist but he was associated with a large company and I felt like a number not a patient - after all this is a big deal in our lives and it's important to feel that you are being viewed that way. I changed to an independent guy who is excellent and understands that our need to know is in plain English. Talk to your cardio and explain you want to see an electrophysiologist or alternatively ask your GP - they may not know offhand but they should be able to research and help you. Good luck.
Katrina

Pacing

by KayLynn - 2012-01-15 05:01:59

I've had my Medtronic PM since 1/2007, I visit the doctor every 6 months for a battery check and any concerns I may or may not have. I am due for my next appt in Feb 2012. My last visit the Medtronic rep asked me if I felt anything when she checked the two wires, I didn't, and usually I can tell. Well when the doctor came in I heard her tell him that she set my PM at independent, meaning I think my heart is working on it's own and if I need help the battery will kick in. The doctor told me that sometimes they see people like me, By setting it on independent it will save the the life of the battery. I'm feeling fine.

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