New ICD

Hello all:

I'm new to the ICD world (implanted 3 days ago).

I have a new ICD which is a combination enhanced pacemaker and defibrillator due to VT and a partially successful ablation.

My EP assures me that with the new pacemaker (more enhanced than my previous one), the partially successful ablation and anti-arrhythmia medication I should be able to conduct a normal life with basically no restrictions.

Further, that I should view the defibrillator as a safety net, which more than likely won't have to shock me.

In spite of this reassurance, I'm still quite anxious over the prospect of being shocked by this device.

I would appreciate feedback from those of you who are experienced with this.

Thanks,

Syd

4 Comments

Thank you

by PEteacher - 2012-11-05 05:11:51

Thank you Grateful Heart.

Regards,

Syd

Anxious

by Grateful Heart - 2012-11-05 12:11:34

It is completely understandable. None of us want to be shocked, but as your EP said, it truly is a safety net. Think of the alternative.

I have not been shocked yet, so I cannot help you with that but there is a new post that talks about it.

I have my ICD for almost 4 years now, so I thought I would give you that perspective...of 4 years and NOT being shocked. Try to enjoy your life now and cross that bridge when and if you come to it.

Be well,

Grateful Heart

Shocked-yes

by conchfm - 2012-11-14 03:11:43

I have had my ICD for 18 months now. Driving my service truck doing 65 mph. I GOT SHOCKED !!!!, 11 yes 11 (eleven) times while driving. Reason for shocks, MALFUNCTION. You want to know about fear and panic attacks. Don't let people tell you to see a head doctor, they only give you plenty of meds and no answers. Its easy for them to say things like RELAX and think about happy times. Let them get shocked, and we will see how happy they will be. Am I ANGRY, yes I am. I had a perfect life, worked, traveled to visit grandkids all around country, took cruises. I was VERY active. Now I am living in a shell and afraid to leave the area I live because the hospital is only 3.8 miles from me. Everyday I want this thing turned off, and everyday I listen to my wife to leave it on. Its a 50/50 chance I will need it someday, its also a 50/50 chance you may fall in the shower and break your head open.

Shocks

by Brillo - 2012-12-16 04:12:58

Hi I have had my ICD pacemaker about 18 months I had it give me a shock while working with my son, at the time I turned to him and said in a calm voice "I think I just got a shock" I did not freak out but just carried on with my work,on my next check up the hospital informed me that the instant cardio version that I had received had put my heart back into rhythmia where it has stayed to date. I suppose this shows we are all different, so have confidence and good luck. PS I am 71years old and still working as a builder full time.


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