Relieved to of found this place

Brand new here. I'm 57, male, have a wife and 6 kids. 18 years ago I contracted endocarditis (sp) from some dental work. I had an aortic valve implant and 10 days later a pacemaker implant.
My pacemakers seems to last about 6 years. 2nd one in 2000, 3rd one is 2006.

I now have been told by cardiologist I need to upgrade to Bi-Vent AICD because my EF is at 20%. I'm very nervous and don't know what to expect on how I will adjust to the upgraded features (being shocked). Their literature is very unsettling, talks about shocks that feel like kicks, I could randomly feel dizzy.

I don't want shocks and symptoms of dizziness. I ride motorcycles, surf, very active at work. Doctor can't predict how the pacemaker will function. Believes it will simply pace like I'm used to.

Anyone have experience/words of comfort as my surgery is set for May 31.

7 Comments

I was upgraded to a .....

by dad4dds - 2013-05-24 02:05:44

Bi-Ventricular ICD/Pacer in December. I feel alot better now that I have it. No shortness of breath no lightheaded. Feel great.

Good Luck Brian

Thank you

by pacing94 - 2013-05-24 07:05:35

I thank each of you for your comments.
The doc explained benefits and function of the 3rd lead (synchronize) but also said (unless I misunderstood) in the event that you loose that synchronization you will feel a kick or dizzy or maybe faint. So what is it? Will it be in synch or not?
I understand the BIG KICK from the defibulator, that doesn't worry me (it's either that or lights out) and I'll take that. My problem is the way he described at any point in time you might get shocked or dizzy or faint

Points well taken

by pacing94 - 2013-05-24 10:05:29

All excellent points, angrysparrow, you're right.
Thank you.

icd vs pm

by Tracey_E - 2013-05-24 10:05:33

I think the bi-vents all come with icd's, that doesn't mean you really need or will ever use the icd part. The 3rd lead will change how you pace by keeping the ventricles in sync,which I'm sure they already told you can increase EF. The icd is only there as back up if you get in a dangerous rhythm. If that happens, you'll be glad you have it because it can save your life faster than someone can call 911. Hopefully you will never find out but it's a nice insurance policy to have.

Don't get too caught up in the warnings. I'm sure the pm warnings say the same thing about dizziness. Even a bottle of aspirin is pretty scary if you read all the fine print.

Good luck to you!

Welcome

by Grateful Heart - 2013-05-24 10:05:53

Glad you found us! I have a Bi-V AICD for almost 5 years now. The Bi-V will synchronize your heart and beat more efficiently. My EF was 24%....it is now 50%. Yours will most likely improve, which will help with all your activities.

As far as being shocked, that hasn't happened to me yet thank God. But let's face it....no one wants to be shocked, but if it happens it's the ICD doing it's job. I share your concern with a wife and 6 kids (I have a husband and 4 kids)...it beats the alternative.

The literature is CYA. It doesn't mean it happens to everyone. Good luck with your surgery, you already know what to expect.

Stay in touch with us and let us know how it goes. Any questions, ask away.

Grateful Heart

Pacing 94

by Bevof NC - 2013-05-25 05:05:59

Hopefully you will be as lucky as I.. I got my 1st ICD in "05...It has paced me out of V-tach several times but has never shocked me. I'm not as active as you. I play ball, badmitten, mow, (not rider) Most anything I want. I'm 72 yrs young!...lol Best of luck to you...We will all be waiting to hear how well you do. Bev of NC

update

by pacing94 - 2013-06-03 11:06:02

You all asked for an update. My procedure on friday went well. Stayed over night. Besides been sore, which was to be expected.
Only issue is low blood pressure. 90 over 70 then as high as 110 over 80. Called doctor who put me on koreg a few years ago told his assistant to tell me to cut dosage in half until its above 130. Its never been above 130 since he started these meds. Seems he isn't trying to put much thought into this.
From others experience is low blood pressure common after this procedure?

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Member Quotes

I am just thankful that I am alive and that even though I have this pacemaker it is not the end of the world.