There may also be some bruising where the pacemaker was inserted. This usually passes within a few days. Tell the staff if your symptoms are persistent or severe. When can I leave hospital? TENS machines should not be used without first consulting your pacemaker clinic or manufacturer. They produce small electrical impulses that could interfere with your pacemaker. Lithotripsy But it's important to keep your arm mobile by gently moving it to avoid getting a frozen shoulder. A physiotherapist can show you how to do this. People who drive for a living, such as bus and lorry drivers, will not be allowed to drive these types of vehicles for at least 6 weeks after the pacemaker is fitted. When can I exercise or play sports again?

Most pacemaker batteries last for 6 to 10 years. After this, you may need to have the batteries changed. The cardiologist or cardiac technician will be able to do this. What problems should I look out for?If this is a problem, you may want to consider replacing the appliance with something more suitable. If this is not possible, call NHS 111 or your local out-of-hours service. Will my pacemaker be affected by electrical equipment? Most modern pacemakers can store information about the state of the battery and the performance of the pulse generator.

If you have an induction hob, keep a distance of at least 60cm (2ft) between the stove top and your pacemaker. Most common household electrical equipment, such as hairdryers and microwave ovens, will not be a problem, as long as you use them at least 15cm (6 inches) away from your pacemaker. You should avoid strenuous activities for around 4 to 6 weeks after having your pacemaker fitted. After this, you should be able to do most activities and sports. These may be every 3 to 12 months, depending on the type of pacemaker you have and how well it works.You should tell your doctor, nurse and dentist about your pacemaker, as you may need to avoid some medical tests and treatments, such as MRI scans and the use of TENS machines. Your pacemaker can then be reprogrammed to the best settings for you, if necessary. Will my sex life be affected? The British Heart Foundation has more information and advice about how to start exercising again after having heart surgery How can I care for my wound? It depends on the kind of stitches used. Many doctors use soluble stitches that dissolve on their own. Before you go home, you'll be told what type of stitches you have.

Anything that produces a strong electromagnetic field, like an induction hob, can interfere with a pacemaker. You may feel some pain or discomfort during the first 48 hours after having a pacemaker fitted, and you'll be given pain-relieving medication. There's no reason you cannot continue to have a good sex life after having a pacemaker implanted and you're feeling better. Changing the batteries involves replacing the pacemaker box with a new unit. This is a simple procedure that may or may not require an overnight stay in hospital.Other types of medical tests are safe, but always tell the person treating you that you have a pacemaker. TENS machines

MRI scans are not usually recommended for people with pacemakers because they produce strong magnetic fields. Signs that your pacemaker is not working as it should or you have developed an infection or blood clot include:The original lead or leads can usually be left in place, although occasionally they'll also need to be replaced. How often will I need follow-up appointments?