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JETZ · May 9, 2007, 08:02 AM

My son (15 years old) has been having blackout spells(not completely passing out) and we have been seeing doctors for this, however they say that his heart rate & blood pressure continue to bottom out and that he is either going to need edication or a pacemaker is there anyone that has any other ideas before I allow them to change his life forever?
He is also very active in sports and in great shape , except for this one problem.Thak you in advance for your thoughts.

Fr_Chuck · May 9, 2007, 08:48 AM

Well better changing his life forever than ending his life forever. Listen to your doctors, Of course I will assume you have a specialist for this, I would go to a second one ( not in the same group) and make sure they agree.

krystal1973 · May 9, 2007, 08:51 AM

If he is recommended a pacemaker I would assume that he is diagnosed with some sort of heart problem, what did the doctor say that the problem was?

tickle · May 9, 2007, 08:53 AM

My son now 24 had a defibrillator (pacemaker) installed five years ago and he is still active in sports. It was an absolute necessity and no doubt in his mind or mine, I love him immensely. What do you mean change his life forever, my god, what is the alternative, a dead son. Have it done if the doctors say he needs it and have him around for a regular life span.

I can't see medication helping my son more then the defibrillator has.

My son is a big lad, well built, works out has an active lifestyle and a great job, if we had not had it done I would not have him now.

Your son, without the pacemaker, could bottom out yet again and collapse during anyone of the sports he is involved in.

krystal1973 · May 9, 2007, 08:58 AM

tickle is right a pacemaker can change his life but only by means of sustaining it.
If it makes you feel more comfortable read all of the information on it and educate yourself on the purpose of the pacemaker, medications. etc. and then ask yourself what the alternative would be.

brandy681 · May 10, 2007, 10:33 PM

I agree with Chuck...

JoeCanada76 · May 10, 2007, 10:45 PM

Pacemaker is important. It will regulate his heartbeat and whenever it does bottom out the pacemaker will kick in and keep it at a good level. Doctors will program it, and most batteries for it will last up to 5 years depending.

All the details will be given, but what is the alternative. Him dying if not getting the treatment. Of course, as a parent it is your call, but you should also let your son know the options.

Like father Chuck said, Would you rather him be changed and live a long life, or not be changed and not having a long life. Also does not hurt to get a second opinion.

I would also like to say, that until a decision is made, maybe it is better to lay of the sports for the mean time just to be on the safe side?? That is just my opinion.