As I have had a pacemaker since I was 11, now 36. I do not understand your concern regarding pacers. Don't get all worked up or set in stone that you should not have one. You must learn to trust your Dr.s advise.
Hello!!! I have finally found someone close to my age with a similiar problem. I had a Mitral valve replaced for my heart when I was 17 (it will be a year in January). I am on Coumadin tablets three times a day and like Angela these medications do not seem to be working for me. Would anyone know an alternative to replace vitamin k in a diet. Please respond asap!!!!
That would be great JC. My EEG's have also come back "normal"... please update me on how you feel.
I too had a positive tilt table test. I was passed out for approx. 1 minute and 20 sec. During that time I had a seizure and my heart beat only 6 times in 1 minute and 12 seconds. I don't know if this is unusual and that is why the pacemaker was recommended before medications. Please respond and thank you for your help.
I have had seizures thought to be directly related to syncope as well. All of my EEG's have always come back normal. If you're interested, I'll post here in a few weeks to let you know if they decide to permantly implant a pacer and how I feel after.
I would favor pacemaker placement in this circumstance.
Pacemakers can help in certain instances of neurocardiogenic syncope, though medicines are typically tried first.
Angela,
I'm a very active and otherwise healthy 29 y/o male with the same condition. I have been on several different medications (Pindolol, Atenolol, Florinef, ProAmetine to name a few) for over two years and nothing seems to work for me. I'm going in for a temporary pacer in a few weeks. I will have a tilt-test administered before and after the temporary pacer. I have always had a positive tilt-test. If I feel better with the pacer and "pass" the tilt test, then I will have a pacer permanently implanted. The reason my cardiologist is recommending the pacer is because I have not responed to medication. My cardiologist said approximately 60-70% of the people with nuerocardiogenic syncope feel better with the pacer.
I definitely feel that trying all medications recommended by your cardiologist first is the most viable option.
I hope this helps and good luck to you.
Most patients with this disorder do not currently get pacemakers. Usually the disorder is treated with medications such as beta blockers. Liberal salt and fluid intake are also sometimes advised.