If someone had got a pacemaker implanted then there is need to take precaution, as any kind of carelessness can be harmful. Expert suggests that any kind of a simple sign indicating a pacemaker malfunction should be addressed urgently and as any kind of delay can be disastrous.
According to Dr Vanita Arora, Associate Director Head-Cardiac Electrophysiology Lab and Arrhythmia Services at Max Super Specialty Hospital, Saket, Pacing lead displacement and dislodgement is a relatively common problem and can occur in 5-10 % of the patients (National Pacemaker and ICD database, 2001). Leads may dislodge from the initial implant site in the first few days to few weeks following the implantation. It may be caused by the limited skills of the implanter.
Dr. Arora further suggested that cardiac patients who have a pacemaker implanted must be careful about the following signs which might indicate problems in the pacemaker and can result in serious health implications if not detected early.
- Pain, bleeding, or bruising soon after the procedure
- Blood clots in your arms, which cause a lot of swelling
- Infection in your chest near the pacemaker
- Increased drainage, bleeding, or oozing from the insertion site
- If the wound appears to be opening at the incision site
- Redness, swelling or warmth around the site.
- Fever or chills
- Dizziness
- Hiccups
- Fainting or nearly fainting
- Fatigue
- Breathlessness
The patient with pacemaker should do regular follow up in the "Pacemaker Clinic".
Dr.Vanita Arora, further says "There is a very high incidence of coronary heart diseases in India. Unfortunately, people tend to not do a thorough research before getting a pacemaker lodged. These machines help us increase the longevity and quality of our patients life. However one needs to ensure that the hands involved in the process are capable as the dislodgement and displacement can have fatal consequences."
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