Tightness in the chest

Hi members

I've had my PM 2weeks ago just needed to know if the feeling of fullness in the chest is normal at this stage. I'm 70yrs. When does the pain over the insertion site subside and is it normal to have a irregular pulse sometimes resulting in fullness in the chest over the sternum. 

1 Comments

Tightness in chest

by Gemita - 2020-03-01 05:23:23

Hello Permkassen, if you are at all concerned please speak to your doctors.  The symptoms you are presently describing may or may not be significant.  It is still very early days since your Pacemaker implant and I do  recall I had a variety of chest discomforts during the immediate healing period.

I have had symptoms of tightness in my chest when I am experiencing an irregular pulse.  Irregular heart rhythms especially when prolonged can affect blood flow to my organs and cause symptoms similar to those you describe.  During implant of pacemaker, pacemaker lead tips are attached to our heart muscle and it is only natural that some of us may develop a few rhythm disturbances as our hearts get used to being paced and to the trauma of being manipulated (!)

I recall when my pacemaker was first implanted that my chest discomfort, particularly around the pocket lasted for at least six weeks before subsiding, but the healing process may go on far longer after any procedure involving the heart.  Sometimes complications during surgery can arise and the recovery time will be longer.  There may be some fluid or inflammation present which is why it is best to consult with a doctor.  Any new chest discomfort needs to be assessed.  

Do you have home monitoring?  You could always transmit a download to your pacemaker clinic for them to check your ECG for any irregularities.  I presume you have an early appointment to go back to your clinic for a post implant pacemaker check.  Good luck and you will feel much better soon especially when you learn what is normal for you

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I am just now 40 but have had these blackouts all my life. I am thrilled with the pacer and would do it all over again.