Demagnatizing

What should a person with pacemaker avoid as far as demagnatizing is concerned? Other than MRI and leaky microwaves.

4 Comments

Pacmaker Interference

by SMITTY - 2010-12-19 02:12:21



Some of the devices that can interfere with pacemakers are:

Home appliances do not interfere with pacemakers, and should not cause any concern whatsoever. (This includes microwave ovens, despite the signs you still see posted in some restaurants.)

Arc welding equipment and other devices that generate powerful magnetic fields – medical devices and heavy duty industrial motors – can inhibit the function of pacemakers. If this should happen to you it will probably feel about the same as when the magnet is placed over the pacemaker during a checkup. If you notice this you should move away from the source of the interference the pacemaker will return to normal operation with no harm done to it or your heart. After an encounter with some device that interferes and you have lingering concerns, call your doctor.

Cellular telephones, if held in close proximity to the pacemaker (which may happen if the phone is kept in a breast pocket) can potentially affect the function of a pacemaker. As long as the phone is kept 6 or more inches from the pacemaker there should not be a problem.

MRI scanners can interrupt the pacing function of pacemakers, and under some circumstances may be dangerous to the pacemaker and the patient. Problems with MRI may be circumvented by taking special care during the procedure and limiting the MRI scan appropriately. Patients with pacemakers should discuss the risks and benefits of MRI scanning with their doctors.
Radiation therapy for cancers can damage the circuits of a pacemaker, and the pacemaker needs to be shielded from this radiation field.

Shock wave lithotripsy, used to break up kidney stones, can potentially damage pacemakers, especially if they are implanted in the abdomen instead of under the collarbone. Pacemakers should be tested after lithotripsy to document that they are still functioning normally

Good luck,

Smitty

microwaves

by LS - 2010-12-19 04:12:18

My EP told me a microwave wasn't a problem.......unless I was in it. LOL
Liz

P.S.

by Quemal - 2010-12-19 06:12:02

I really need to use my spell check more....

imterference

by Quemal - 2010-12-19 06:12:09

My E.P. told me, the anti-theft devices at stores can cause my device to shut down. He told me to walk through, but, not to stop in between them. Of course, the first time I went through them, some person decided to stop just beyond them, trapping me in "hot zone". I, of course, panicked, and attempted to back out, but, people were stopped behind me. Much to my relief, nothing happened. This is when I learned, not all electronic devices will kill me now.

Using common sense, is your best bet.

You know you're wired when...

Like the Energizer Bunny, you keep going.

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