Swelling

Hi everyone! I'm new here and to having a pacemaker, just got it Wednesday. Can anybody tell me how much swelling is normal after the procedure? I am swollen all over...most noticeably in my arms, hands and chest.

2 Comments

Normal? Hmm. . .

by Janenotarzan - 2015-07-12 01:07:48

Hi BeckyLynne,

Great name! One of my 5 daughters is Becky Leigh-- Rebecca Leigh for long : )

I'm new to this club also; I got my PM on February 7th this year, making me another newby.

One of the first lessons I took away from the messages on this site was that "normal" is subjective, varying greatly from one person to another. However, broad timeframes for 'average norms' are posted here sometimes, usually with disclaimers that you seek professional medical advice regarding your specific situation.

I have no answer to your question, but I do know 'swelling' has 2 major causes: fluid retention and tissue inflammation, with myriad underlying causes for either of those.

I had no swelling even close to what you described, and if I had, I would've called my EP's office, given details, and asked for a call-back from one of the EP's RNs.

Wishing you well & hoping to hear updates.
~Jane

check back

by knb123 - 2015-07-12 08:07:49

Hi Becky and welcome! I assume the hospital gave you discharge instructions. Generally speaking, I would check those instructions against your symptoms on a daily basis.

That said, swelling is definitely is a symptom to watch for. I would call the doctor's office and report it. If the nurse gives you a vague answer, pin her down. For example: "Oh that should disappear after a while." You say: "How long should I wait before I call back--24 hours? 48 hours? What else should I watch for?" etc.

It is quite possible that the swelling is a normal consequence of your procedure. Then again, it could be a side effect of any medication you're taking.

You know you're wired when...

You fondly named your implanted buddy.

Member Quotes

I've seen many posts about people being concerned about exercise after having a device so thought I would let you know that yesterday I raced my first marathon since having my pacemaker fitted in fall 2004.