tennis after pacemaker?

I am 57 year old male, always been very active, running, working out, & now tennis. I have recently been diagnosed & treated for Grave's disease, a form or hyperthyroidism. this has affected my heart rhythm. I was sent to a Heart specialist who has diagnosed me with tachy brady syndrome. I was told no physical activity except walking, & I would probably need a pacemaker after thyroid treatment was complete. I'm concerned about being able to play tennis. Has anyone had experience with a situation like this?

3 Comments

Pacemaker & Tennis

by Artist - 2015-06-30 08:06:19

The only thing I can really address is the question of activity after a PM is implanted. Assuming you are right handed and the PM would be implanted near your left shoulder, you should be able to play tennis after following your post operative instructions. Those instructions vary a little among doctors but generally deal with limiting weight lifting to 10 lbs. during weeks 1-2 and 20 lbs. during weeks 2-4. Movement of the left arm is encouraged to keep the shoulder from locking up, but most PM recipients are told to not raise their left arm above shoulder level for the first 30 days. Then activities can be gradually increased. The medical considerations involving your thyroid are something that you will probably have to get more guidance on from your doctor after your PM is implanted and your thyroid treatment is complete. Many of our PM recipients are very physically active and actually have increased
endurance because of their improved cardiac function.

Hi Ramon

by IAN MC - 2015-07-01 11:07:38

There is life after a pacemaker ! I play tennis 3 times a week with no problems whatsoever

Best of luck

Ian

Pacemaker and Grave's Disease

by Miker16502 - 2015-07-07 09:07:37

I have had Grave's Disease for 25 years. I took radioactive iodine to destroy the thyroid and have been on Synthroid ever since then. I received my pacemaker 2 weeks ago (age 64) and was told not to kayak, ride my bike, or golf for 4 weeks. After that, I am allowed to resume all activities.

Good Luck

Mike C.

You know you're wired when...

You have a high-tech ticker.

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Since I got my pacemaker, I don't pass out anymore! That's a blessing in itself.