airports

Hello to everyone. I recently flew and showed my pacemaker card and they took me back to do a pat down as not to go thru security device. On the way back at the Las Vegas airport they made me go thru the security and would not even look at my pacemaker card. I have a dual lead with a defibulator and I received a first class shock. What I need to know can this have affected my pacemaker settings. I have a Medtronic pacemaker 100% dependant. Does anyone have an answer??
Thanks ponyrider 62.

6 Comments

Should be no problem

by bowlrbob - 2007-05-29 08:05:28

I have always heard that if you just walk through the metal detector and don't stop for a period of time there should be no problem. I went to the Medtronic site and they have a printed article there that says that very thing. It states that just going through the detector will not reset or turn off your pacer. It might set it off how ever and if it does they will probably wand you or pat you down. The wand also won't bother it as long as they don't just stay over the site. So I wouldn't worry but if you still are check with your DR. Bowlrbob

airports

by brokenheart - 2007-05-29 09:05:08

Hi. Those idiots...if something happens to you, go back and tell some one at the ariport so they can be more careful next time. People have different experiences. Me..i cant even get close to the metal detector because my heart starts fluttering and i feel chest pain right away. Just make sure u always carry your card with you and demand the respect that u deserve. I also have medtronic macemaker. If you are feeling weird just call your doc to make sure everything is ok with your pacemaker. hope this helps. God bless.

i am appalled

by jessie - 2007-05-29 11:05:53

i was in alaska last week and i was treated with respect and very lightly checked bodily for weapons maybe but absolutely great people who immediately took me aside and checked me. i wasn't even asked for the card. i too have a medtronic. all i was asked in seattle was would my husband watch my purse. very professional. i would complain and write a registered letter to the airport authority.jessie

I am with the rest of the group!!

by swilson10 - 2007-05-30 02:05:07

I too am totally appalled by this and would definitely contact airport staff to file a complaint. This is unacceptable. I think that just like many other unacceptable things in our society the only way we can change them is to take action!!! If there is going to be some amount of risk taking in going through the metal detectors then I fully believe that the only person who gets to decide about if the risk is worth it is the patients !! Also, of course check with your doctor if you are concerned about any damage or alteration to the ICD.

Las Vegas Airport

by ted - 2007-05-30 06:05:34

I'm really surprised by your experience. I fly into and out of Las Vegas at least twice a month and have never been even asked for my pacemaker card. I just tell them I have a pacer, put my stuff, except wallet and money, on the belt, and then go into the handicapped line for a pat down. I have had some bad experiences at several Las Vegas courthouses where some gun tooting cowboy security guards jump up with a wand before I can stop them. They have refused to allow me to enter the building and I have to raise hell and scream for a supervisor. The Americans with Disabilities Act requires that reasonable accomodation me made for us. Insist on your right to be free from interference with your health. My doctor does not want me to go through security devises or have a wand search me no matter how safe the manufacturer says it is. Ted

our rights

by jessie - 2007-05-31 12:05:27

i too am appalled. i wouldn't do it if they insisted. it is totally inappropriate and more teaching is needed. i flew for the first time to seattle and had no problems whatsoever. i can just picture the gun tooting cowboy security guards lol lol soo this totally surprizes me but i will be ready no matter what. at least now somewhat prepared and i would in noo way walk thru the devise or let them use a wand no thank you jessie

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To tell you the truth I never even give it a second thought. While growing up it never stopped me from doing anything and to this day my girlfriend or my kids need to remind me that I have one!