pacemaker programming

[KAD]

I am having a difficult time getting my pacemaker programmed ideally for my lifestyle.  I am a young female (late 20's) with an AAiR pacer.  I have been into doctor several times for programming it.  It goes way to fast for just walking or standing around.  90-100 standing and 120+ walking.  When it gets going fast with walking I can feel it pacing me, which is kind of getting annoying.  I guess the problem is more of a nuisance than anything.  I do not feel it pacing me when I am running, stairmaster or working out hard.  Do you know of an easy solution to remedy this?  I see my doctor in Aug. for a pacer check-What should I suggest?  Should they back off on the sensitivity or something?  The lower rate is kind of high at 80 and I think the upper rate is 180.  Thank you!

[CCF-M.D.-MJM]

Hi Kad,

Pacer programming like this can be tricky.  You want it to respond to sudden increases in activity yet not over respond.  I would just tell your doctor that it is bothering you and they will likely decrease the sensitivity and possibly the lower rate (80 is a bit fast).  An upper rate of 180 is about right for someone your age.

Be persistent if it keeps bothering you and keep making adjustments until you find one that fits your needs.

Thanks for posting.

[BABlocker]

I am 100% pacemaker dependant...when I am briskly walking at work, my heart rate can get to 120-130, even with HR suppression from Verapamil 720mg/day), so that in and of itself can be a normal response (my rate response is on). My lower limit is 75 and my upper limit is 140.

The original need for a pacemaker in DDDR pacing mode is due to AV Node ablation for atrial fibrillation.

[PikaPika88]

I was told my HIS bundle ablated, sometime told was AV node ablated.  I wasn't know which part that he intented to ablate 20 years ago.  

My dual chambers St Jude pacer is in DDIR mode now.  He put it back in DDDR mode just a few days before the gastroscopy.  He wants to change it back to DDIR mode after the gastroscopy.  I don't know what's the difference?  Any one?

I'm still feeling exhausted, dizzy, SOB.....  The pacer is making "machine gun", "garbage truck", "train stopped all stations" and "express train" sensation in my chest.  It vibrates, makes noises and strong beats very often.  I don't think it is right but he said all fine!

I'm pacing 70.  The tech said it picks up 2 beats late.  I posted many places but no one reply.  When I was in ER, the cardio on call said my pacer is very tricky!  This is my number 4 pacer and it is only 4 years old.

It is true, very uncomfortable and annoying when it didn't pace what I want.  Everyone take care!