Breast Edema from Pacemaker

I received a single lead Medtronic pacemaker in November 2008 to treat Sinus Node dysfunction and Bradycardia. The surgery and recovery went well and my life changed so much for the better. I received a new battery in August 2015 and suffered from significant breast edema. My left breast was twice the size of my right. Though it has gone down, my left breast is still significantly larger than the right and has a heavy feeling. No bruising or tenderness. My cardiologist suspected a blood clot however that was ruled out. I had a Mammogram and Ultrasound which were normal but was referred to an Oncologist who found nothing structurally wrong with my breast. He was the one to inform me that I was experiencing breast edema from my pacemaker, not my cardiologist. Just wondering if anyone has had this experience?

2 Comments

odd

by Tracey_E - 2016-05-03 06:05:25

That's a new one! Glad to hear they've ruled out any serious causes but how frustrating.

Kind of obvious, but has anyone suggested a heating pad? I was swollen after one of my replacements, not nearly as much as you described, but very noticeable. When I mentioned it to a nurse months later, she suggested heating pad. Two days and it was mostly back to normal.

Breast Edema from Pacemaker

by slovell - 2016-05-04 01:05:19

Thanks, Tracey. It's been very frustrating. But overall, grateful that it's nothing more serious. I have tried heat. The Drs have also recommended massage therapy. My husband has been happy to offer his services. :)

You know you're wired when...

You take technology to heart.

Member Quotes

The pacer systems are really very reliable. The main problem is the incompetent programming of them. If yours is working well for you, get on with life and enjoy it. You probably are more at risk of problems with a valve job than the pacer.