NCS/set pacer at 80?

NCS/set pacer at 80?

Posted by kathy22 on 2012-02-01 12:06



I have a Medtronic pacer and it is set at 70, and is on the response mode. I have not been feeling well since December. My pacemaker has been adjusted twice and I am feeling every rate drop, get severe headache and have lost my appetite. I spoke to my cardiogist this morning and he said that I just have to work through it. I told him it was living hell, what I am going through. I used to have episodes every 3-4 months, would spend a day or 2 in bed and was fine for several more months. Then the episodes started happening every 2-3 weeks. I asked about setting the pacemaker 70 or 80 BPM and no rate response,he said it was worth a try. Has anyone have their pacer set at 80BPM at a steady rate? I am nervous about it but can't live like this!!!!

2 Comments

NCS stinks

by jenny97 - 2012-02-02 06:02:55

I'm so sorry you're having such a rough time of it, Kathy. I hope you get feeling better soon.

When you're having these episodes that have increased so much recently, what do they entail? Are you having high heart rates, or low heart rates? Have you checked your blood pressure during these episodes? Is it typically low or high? Are you having palpitations or irregular beats?

One thing I've learned is that sometimes the rate drop response can actually be set to be more sensitive than needed and then you get overpaced. When you are overpaced, it can also be quite uncomfortable, because your heart rate suddenly and unnecessarily spikes when the pacemaker kicks in. If overpacing is the issue, then turning the rate drop response down might bring you some relief.

At the same time, if your heart rate is too low, then setting the lower pm setting to 80 could also potentially help with your energy.

But I'd recommend making the changes one at a time, so if something improves you can pinpoint what caused the improvement and can make sure the setting doesn't get changed again.

If your problems are associated with low blood pressure, are you following the other recommendations for individuals with NCS? Like maintaining a high sodium diet (Mayo told me 4-6 grams of sodium per day), lots of fluids (but not just water), use of compressions stockings, and lower body exercise? These can sometimes help manage symptoms as well.

NCS is tough to deal with, but I hope it becomes more manageable for you soon so you can regain the quality of life you desire.

All the best,

Jenny

jenny

by kathy22 - 2012-02-02 10:02:59

my heart rate drops along with my BP.... I spoke to my cardio yesterday and he said I would just have to live the way I Have been. I told him I felt so miserable that I didnt have the energy to drive 5 minutes from my home to the drug store. He said I need to get used to it and "plow" through it. I have always had the severe rate drop, would drop 50 beats in a couple of seconds...felt like I was going to die..... the occurred every 5 to 6 months.... then to 3 months and in September they occurred every 2 weeks. I was so ill that I was in bed for 2 days. I had a episode every hour for a 24 hour period. I asked so many times to be admitted to the hospital to be monitored and my cardio said there was nothing that could be done to help me since no one knw what causes NCS. I initiated the question about setting it at 80, he said if that is what i wanted.. he would change it.... I am shocked by his response, He has always been so caring. I am afraid to go. I have to stay calm....and be on top of this.

You know you're wired when...

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