Precautions after pacemaker installation

  After implantation of the pacemaker, it is best not to raise the arm on the side where the pacemaker is buried for 1 to 2 weeks in order to fix the electrodes, but you can move your arm slightly. For 6 months after pacemaker implantation, do not engage in activities that involve large movements of the implanted limb such as washing clothes, mopping floors, chopping wood, etc. In addition, sports close to the location of the implanted pacemaker, such as push-ups or hanging a bar, must also be avoided.  1. If you notice any inflammatory symptoms such as fever, pain, fluid flow or pacemaker exposure at the surgical incision, contact your doctor immediately.  2. Do not apply direct pressure to your pacemaker. For example, do not try to squeeze and move your pacemaker.  3. Later in life, avoid putting weight on the arm on the side of the pacemaker implant. Count your pulse every day when you are quiet (especially when you wake up in the morning) and write it down in a book. If the pulse falls below the minimum frequency informed by the doctor, contact the doctor immediately.  4.Avoid opening the hood to repair the car engine.  5. When traveling, carry a pacemaker implant card and try to be able to arrange a pacemaker follow-up check before going out. Avoid bringing magnets close to the pacemaker, including all magnetic therapy fitness equipment.  6. When using a cell phone ensure that it is more than 15 cm away from the pacemaker and use the same principles as a cell phone when using a cordless phone. When answering the phone, try to answer it in the ear that is farther away from your pacemaker.  7. Driving a motorcycle or riding in a violent and bumpy car may have an impact on frequency-adapted pacing; follow your doctor’s advice.  8. When you go to the hospital, be sure to tell your doctor that you have a pacemaker.  9. Pacemaker implant cards should be carried with you as much as possible. In case of an emergency, it will help to bring you to the hospital in time for treatment by ambulance.  If the pacemaker is interfered with and does not work properly, you may experience palpitations, dizziness, weakness, or even fainting, or a sudden change in your pulse pattern, or you may feel the same symptoms you had before the pacemaker was implanted. These symptoms usually disappear quickly after disconnection. If the symptoms persist after you are convinced that you are free from the disturbance, please inform your physician as soon as possible.  11. Pacemakers are highly reliable devices and should be checked at least once every 3 to 6 months. In addition, when dizziness, weakness, fainting, dyspnea, chest pain, swelling of both lower limbs, incessant choking or abnormal fever occur, contact the doctor in charge for an examination.