cell phones

has anyone out there heard of cell phones interfering with pacemakers? if so how ?

4 Comments

Cell Phones and Pacemakers

by JessVig - 2012-01-07 02:01:11

Just got my 5th pacemaker replacement at the end of Dec 2011. I asked specifically about this as over the years, rules and regulations have changed according to what is acceptable and what is not. I was given this little booklet and it states the following:

*Cellular phones - should be kept 6 inches away from your generator. Indoor cordless are okay. As you talk, hold the cell phone to the ear on the opposite side of your pacemaker. Carry the phone on the opposite side as well.

*Electromagnetic anti-theft systems - are often located near store entrances and exits. Walking through one is okay. But avoid standing or leaning against one.

*Very strong magnets - should be avoided. Never have an MRI test (which uses strong magnets). You should also avoid standing near large speakers, such as those used at a music concert.

*Strong electrical fields - can be created by radio towers and heavy-duty power equipment (such as an arc welder). Car engines also create an electrical field while they're running. So avoid leaning over the hood.

I hope this is helpful!

The above...

by TLR - 2012-01-07 08:01:58

Never had any problems with phones, and have kept my iPhone in my pocket directly over my PM many times. Same goes for car engines, chainsaws, motorbikes, etc.

As for the MRI, the main issue is that the magnetic field may pull the wires out of your heart, though I doubt this has ever been reality the powers that be will not take the chance.

PMs nowadays (and yours should be a modern one what with battery changes and the like) are protected againist MINIMAL interferance like phones, security arches, blah, blah, etc, etc. If you feel your rate change just move the problem away or walk away. Simples.

db

by dorbr - 2012-01-07 09:01:46

i have been having a lot of weird sensations they told me my pacemaker mpved so i was wondering if this could be from it hitting up against a nerve or something but it seems like every time i use my cell phone the sensation gets worse so it was a question concerning this

Cell Phone Affect On PMs

by SMITTY - 2012-01-07 11:01:46

I have never known of a cell phone affecting a PM, although the question is asked here frequently. According to an article from FDA if a PM was affected by a cell phone it would probably be in one of three ways:

Stopping the pacemaker from delivering the stimulating pulses that regulate the heart's rhythm

Causing the pacemaker to deliver the pulses irregularly

Causing the pacemaker to ignore the heart's own rhythm and deliver pulses at a fixed rate

I guess the moral of the story is, maybe, but probably not, especially if you keep the phone 4 or 5 few inches from the PM.

You know you're wired when...

You know the difference between hardware and software.

Member Quotes

I have earned my Black Belt. I now teach class!