Pacemaker nearing expiration

Our mother is 95 years old and has had a pacemaker since 2006. Lately she has experienced being very tired and needs to take naps. She has cut her time on her treadmill to 15 minutes from the usual 30 minutes. She does recover after her nap of an hour or two, and sleeps well at night. My question is could this be a sign she needs a new pacemaker before the anticipated time. She is being monitored every month since September, instead of the usual 6 months. She is 70% dependent on the pacemaker and has Atrial Fib. My question is: is this a common symtom to get so tired when nearing the battery expiration date? Any help would be appreciated.

3 Comments

If she has not been seen for awhile

by janetinak - 2013-01-05 05:01:50

if she were my Mom, I'd get her in for an appointment. I was being monitored every month & all OK (still waiting for ERT) but I felt more tired & little SOB after usual activity a few days after my last check. Got in & I had gone into ERT. Had the PM replaced soon after & back to normal for me afterwards.

Hope that helps,

Janet

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by shirley d - 2013-01-06 07:01:04

I remember reading on this sire somewhere that your pacemaker resets itself when it is nearing the end of battery life. My understanding of that is that your mom's PM would then wipe her personalised settings which would effect how she feels.
I may have misunderstood (I'm sure someone will then correct me) but it would be worth doing the search. I would get her to the cardio anyway and notify the tech to be there.(I always do this as then she can plan her day instead of the cardio staff doing a last minute search for her.
Your mom sounds great. Mine lives with me and will be 90 in MArch. Sharp as a tack but with bad osteoporosis. Privilage to have her.
Good luck
Shirley

PACEMAKER BATTERY

by EdP - 2013-01-06 09:01:31

Shirley thanks so much and will do. I have already called and am waiting for a call back. Happy and Healthy New Year to you and your mom. We are fortunate to have our moms with us and in pretty decent health.

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At age 20, I will be getting a pacemaker in few weeks along with an SA node ablation. This opportunity may change a five year prognosis into a normal life span! I look forward to being a little old lady with a wicked cane!