After I Do: A Novel

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Some people may also feel more rested after trying stress reduction techniques. The American Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Society note that almost 50% of people with myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) and CFS — both of which can cause symptoms similar to those of post-viral syndrome — use alternative therapies, such as meditation, yoga, and acupuncture, to help them cope. If you drive a large or passenger-carrying vehicle, you'll have to wait 6 weeks after your pacemaker is fitted before driving again. It can be very upsetting and embarrassing, but it's important to get medical advice if you have it because treatment can help. Signs and symptoms Having a pacemaker can help you be more active. It may also help you stay out of hospital and live longer.

Lauren and Ryan have reached a point in their relationship where they no longer bother telling the other what is important to them. Communication is stifled, and they become so withdrawn they begin despising the other for their own shortcomings.But it's important to keep your arm mobile by gently moving it to avoid getting a frozen shoulder.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 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. The trigger for post-viral syndrome appears to be a reaction to the virus itself. Many doctors will treat post-viral syndrome in the same way as they treat chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), as the two can have a similar presentation. You should also tell your family and close friends that you have a pacemaker fitted. Tell them what to do if you lose consciousness or collapse. Will the pacemaker improve my quality of life?

Gentle exercise, such as walking, can help the healing process, but you should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for about 4 to 6 weeks. Do not try to self-diagnose the cause of your problems. Get medical help so the underlying cause can be identified and treated. More information If after having the pacemaker fitted and leaving hospital you feel you're not getting as much benefit as you imagined, your pacemaker may need some small adjustments.Women may need a new bra with wider straps. Avoid exposing your wound to sunlight in the first year as this can cause a darker scar. Will I have to have my stitches removed? Make sure you follow the instructions your nurse gave you about caring for your wound, hygiene and bathing.

After the operation, your groin will feel sore and uncomfortable. You'll be given painkillers to help relieve this discomfort. Looking after yourselfYou must also tell the Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) and your insurance company that you have a pacemaker. Call it guilty pleasure - whatever you want, but there was a moment in this book where I turned into complete MUSH! Avoid drinking alcohol, operating machinery or signing legal documents for at least 48 hours after any operation involving general anaesthetic. This

MRI scans are not usually recommended for people with pacemakers because they produce strong magnetic fields.

Looking after yourself

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? Your pacemaker can then be reprogrammed to the best settings for you, if necessary. Will my sex life be affected? 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 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. You should be able to go home on the day of, or day after, your operation. You'll need to ask someone to take you home and you should follow any instructions you're given at hospital.