These may be every 3 to 12 months, depending on the type of pacemaker you have and how well it works. Do not get your wound wet until your stitches have been taken out. After that, avoid wearing anything that rubs against the area of your wound, such as braces. Signs that your pacemaker is not working as it should or you have developed an infection or blood clot include: Your pacemaker can then be reprogrammed to the best settings for you, if necessary. Will my sex life be affected?

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. Having a pacemaker can help you be more active. It may also help you stay out of hospital and live longer. 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. 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. You may be able to feel the pacemaker and it may feel uncomfortable when you lie in certain positions, but you'll soon get used to it.

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? If this is a problem, you may want to consider replacing the appliance with something more suitable. If you have an induction hob, keep a distance of at least 60cm (2ft) between the stove top and your pacemaker.

If you feel dizzy or your heart beating faster while using an electrical appliance, simply move away from it to allow your heartbeat to return to normal. Mobile phones It's best to avoid reaching up on the side you had your operation for 4 to 6 weeks. That means not hanging out washing or lifting anything from a high shelf, for example.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. But you should avoid positions that place pressure on the arms and chest for the first 4 weeks of your recovery.

Most pacemaker batteries last for 6 to 10 years. After this, you may need to have the batteries changed. 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? Avoid wearing magnetic bracelets and magnets near your chest. Will I need to have another pacemaker? Other types of medical tests are safe, but always tell the person treating you that you have a pacemaker. TENS machinesThe box displays your heart rhythm on several monitors in the nursing unit. The nurses will be able to observe your heart rate and rhythm.

You must also tell the Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) and your insurance company that you have a pacemaker.At your follow-up appointment, the technician or doctor will analyse the discharge rate of your pacemaker, measure the strength of the electrical impulse, and record the effects of the impulse on your heart. 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.