Heart problems: Living with a pacemaker or ICD
Introduction
A pacemaker or an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) helps protect you against dangerous heart rhythms. It's important to know how these devices work and how to keep them working right. Learning a few important facts about pacemakers and ICDs can help you get the best results from your device.
Key points
- Avoid strong magnetic and electrical fields. These can keep your device from working right.
- Most office equipment and home appliances are safe to use. Learn which things you should use with caution and which you should stay away from.
- Be sure that any doctor, dentist, or other health professional you see knows that you have a pacemaker or ICD.
- Always carry a card in your wallet that tells what kind of device you have. Wear medical alert jewelry that says you have a pacemaker or ICD.
- Have your pacemaker or ICD checked regularly to make sure it is working right.
What are pacemakers and ICDs?
Why does a pacemaker or ICD need to be checked regularly?
How do you get the best results from a pacemaker or ICD?
Where to go from here
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| Author: | Deborah Dakins | Last Updated: February 8, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine George Philippides, MD - Cardiology | |
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