Becoming Pacemaker Dependent

Hello,

I just had an interrogation of my pacemaker tonight. It showed I am now pacing at 64%, where just 3 or 4 months ago, I was only pacing at 13%. (implanted 12/2010)

I've learned that not only can you become 100% dependent on one, but they can long term, also lead to CHF. No one explained this to me before getting one and I was hoping to learn a bit more about it.

Could the pacemaker itself be causing the dependency or is my heart getting worse? Is it still just the electrical part, or does becoming dependent on a pacemaker mean the physical heart is affected as well.

Any info and guidance would be greatly appreciated!!

Thanks so much!!

[Mom2four85]

I would try to post in the heart disease expert forum; that's what they thought was happening to me but it wasn't and they still can't find the problem with my ICD.

if you find you can't post in the HD expert forum keep trying until an opening comes up and ask one of the doctors about this and what to look for - I can't remember what they told me it's been awhile but you could always search through the expert forum and see if they answer others questions like yours

[trbldheart]

Thank you so much! I will try that

[itdood]

Have you addressed this question with your doctor yet?

[ksig]

I would think CHF would be dependent on your heart's condition, not necessarily on your dependance on a pacer.  I am 100% dependent on a pacer as I had an AVJ ablation a few year ago.  I am on my second pacer, too.  I am fine and not worried about CHF.  That has never been part of the conversation.  I have a very healthy heart with the exception of a faulty electrical system.  I have been plagued with AFib for years.  I would ask your doc about the condition of your heart and what he/she thinks about your possibility of developing CHF.
ksig