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Should Beta Blockers Be Taken After Pacemaker Implantation?
Question: My neighbour is 76 years old and had a pacemaker fitted 10 days ago. He is now also taking beta blockers. He was previously on beta blockers and a doctor took him off them. His pulse rate became erratic and the Heart Specialist said he was to have the pacemaker fitted. Should he still be taking beta blockers? He is experiencing some dizziness when he stands and was told this was to be expected. He is also on numerous other drugs for back pain problems as a result of precious injuries from his days as a football player. These drugs include Lyrica, Endone, etc. along with his back pain and neck pain, he is experiencing headaches. His blood pressure is good 140/70 and his pulse seems to be varying from 40 to 80.
Brief Answer:
Yes, he should be taking beta blockers.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for asking.
I am Dr. Prakash HM and I will be answering your query.
Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:
1. He is possibly suffering from postural hypotension.
2. Beta blockers is necessary.
If he were my patient, I would suggest as follows:
1. Postural hypotension is age related and is due to slowing of the baro-receptor system in neck. The function of baro-receptors is to sense any change in posture and appropriately change blood pressure at various locations.
2. Due to age, this baro-receptor is unable to sense actively as before and now, it will take more time. So any change in position will initially present as dizziness - sleeping to sitting, sitting to standing. Once the body adjusts, it wont be a problem
3. Changing positions or neck movements, if slowly done, there wont be any dizziness. Not to to worry. Any change in posture should be slow and stepwise.
Immediate movements should be avoided.
4. Beta blockers is necessary and postural hypotension is not due to beta blockers. If the blood pressure were to fall below 90/60, then removal of beta blockers can be thought of. At present, it is helpful.
5. For Back pain, during acute pain - rest is necessary. At other times, physiotherapy along with back strengthening exercises should be helpful.
6. He will require medication to control pain. These medications do not cause postural hypotension.
7. Nutritional diet, moderate exercises and active life is necessary.
Hope it helps.
Any further queries, happy to help again.
Dr. Prakash HM
Yes, he should be taking beta blockers.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for asking.
I am Dr. Prakash HM and I will be answering your query.
Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:
1. He is possibly suffering from postural hypotension.
2. Beta blockers is necessary.
If he were my patient, I would suggest as follows:
1. Postural hypotension is age related and is due to slowing of the baro-receptor system in neck. The function of baro-receptors is to sense any change in posture and appropriately change blood pressure at various locations.
2. Due to age, this baro-receptor is unable to sense actively as before and now, it will take more time. So any change in position will initially present as dizziness - sleeping to sitting, sitting to standing. Once the body adjusts, it wont be a problem
3. Changing positions or neck movements, if slowly done, there wont be any dizziness. Not to to worry. Any change in posture should be slow and stepwise.
Immediate movements should be avoided.
4. Beta blockers is necessary and postural hypotension is not due to beta blockers. If the blood pressure were to fall below 90/60, then removal of beta blockers can be thought of. At present, it is helpful.
5. For Back pain, during acute pain - rest is necessary. At other times, physiotherapy along with back strengthening exercises should be helpful.
6. He will require medication to control pain. These medications do not cause postural hypotension.
7. Nutritional diet, moderate exercises and active life is necessary.
Hope it helps.
Any further queries, happy to help again.
Dr. Prakash HM
Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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