Newly Fitted with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator

Hello everyone!

I am a 64 years old man from Canada and two months ago I had an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator installed (if that is the correct word lol)

So probably like most of you that have one installled, I have a few questions about living with a ICD, I am meeting with my Doctor who implanted the ICD this week, but never have really discussed the Do's and Dont's with anyone.

I lucliky and happily found this club while doing some research, and I joined since I figured who whould know more about living with an ICD, than people living with an ICD, right?

I am not having any phycological issues living with it, in fact I am happy to have one. I am thinking that I will have many questions but for now I only have a couple.

Yesterday I purchased a Snow Blower and it dawned on me after I made the purchase if I can use one, considering it has an electric start and when using one there are a lot of vibrations.

So my question is:

Is it Safe/OK to use a snowblower when you have an ICD?

My other question is regarding Electrical Cord Power Tools, same question:

Is it Safe/OK to use Electrical Power Corded Tools when you have an ICD?

Thank you for taking the time to read my questions and have a great weekend!

:o)

 

3 Comments

ICD

by Old male - 2024-08-24 10:44:53

Welcome here.   I don't know about a Snowblower but use many corded and battery power tools without issues.  Believe the guidelines say keep motored equipment about a foot length away from our devices.

Automobile mechanics to stay away from alternators when engine running.  As for yard tools, most are used at arms length with exception of some trimmers.  I don't carry cellphone in shirt pocket on that side.  No contact sports that might cause an impact to device area.

I am a 10 year recipient on my second device due to battery depletion.  Have had shock twice to correct dangerous rhythms possibly Cardiac Arrest which is the primary purpose of an ICD. 

Although some have had bad reactions when Zapped, my description is;  it was over before I realized what happened, was more surprising and not painful.  Then realizing it possibly just saved me from Cardiac Arrest, I was thankful for the device and God given technology. 

Life goes on pretty much normal and you will soon find we often forget we have the devices.

 

 

Snow Blowers

by Lurker (Doc DX) - 2024-08-24 12:53:53

I use a snowblower every winter. I blow my own plus my neighbors. I always use the pull start. Vibration is not an issue. The new models have good steering so you don't have to swing it around at end of driveway. That is a big plus. 
 

Hi and Welcome

by Lavender - 2024-08-24 21:25:13

The good news is that hunting fishing and golf are still on your ok list!

You know you're wired when...

You prefer rechargeable batteries.

Member Quotes

So, my advice is to go about your daily routine and forget that you have a pacemaker implanted in your body.