Avoid wearing magnetic bracelets and magnets near your chest. Will I need to have another pacemaker? 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? Anything that produces a strong electromagnetic field, like an induction hob, can interfere with a pacemaker.

If this is a problem, you may want to consider replacing the appliance with something more suitable. 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.You must also tell the Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) and your insurance company that you have a 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. 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 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?

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. The cardiologist or cardiac technician will be able to do this. What problems should I look out for?

Will I have to have my stitches removed?

Having a pacemaker can help you be more active. It may also help you stay out of hospital and live longer. Most pacemaker batteries last for 6 to 10 years. After this, you may need to have the batteries changed. 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. 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?

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. 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 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. 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.The 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 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 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?