Nw PM/ICD Recipient Questions

I just got my device 3 days ago so I''m very new to this.  I have a trip scheduled in April whereby I will be gong on a train over the  mountains and will be at elevations from 5000 - 9000 feet while on the train.  I won't be doing anything physical but will tis affect my device in any way?  The length of time in that altitude is about 27 hours.

 

Fred

3 Comments

no problem

by Tracey_E - 2017-12-26 09:51:01

Altitude has no effect on pacemakers, tho sometimes the reason we have the pacer may make us more sensitive to it. Stay hydrated and take it easy until you get used to it. I live at sea level but my parents live at 7500. When I visit them, I take a day or two to get used to it then we hike/ski up to 11,000. Just sitting on a train you probably won't even notice a difference. 

Altitude

by Jimmy Dinfla - 2018-01-21 21:58:19

TraceyE is right.  Get acclimated to a higher altitude before going even higher, especially if you got an ICD because you have a low ejection fraction. I was driving and couldn't get enough air trying to cross a mountain pass, so turned around, stayed overnight at lower altitude and the next day found another way at lower elevation to get to my destination.  I have a low ejection fraction, ICD and damage from a heart attack.  Don't know your circumstance, but recommend discussing your unique situation with your cardiologist, and if you get the OK, acclimate yourself for a few days.  

resonse to Moose

by Shocked1 - 2018-02-05 13:23:06

If you have any hesitations, ask your doctor. I suspect you will be reassured that there will be no problems, and that will be reassuring. I think worry  is a big problem also. And they may give you some helpful hints that you can take with you.

 

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As for my pacemaker (almost 7 years old) I like to think of it in the terms of the old Timex commercial - takes a licking and keeps on ticking.