Got head butted in ICD

Okay so me and my two kids were laying on the couch watching a movie when my kids started picking at each other. Well my 4 year old feel back and hit my device full force with her head. Now it hurts and is kinda swollen. It is always somewhat sore there anyways but now it is much worse. Do you think I just bruised the area around it or what?

3 Comments

Probably Bruised

by MSPACER - 2012-01-14 05:01:12

Well, I would just keep an eye on it. Any blow to the body will cause bruising and swelling. Since the area is sensitive, it will probably be worse. If you are concerned, call your doctor. I doubt if the pacemaker or leads were damaged. It's probably just bruising. My first thought would be to put an ice pack on the area for just a few minutes, but it's always best to call the doctor to see if this is what you should do.

Head Butted

by ElectricFrank - 2012-01-15 01:01:40

Them 4yr olds are mean little devils! I remember getting a bloody lip from one of mine years ago doing the same thing. In my case it was more noticeable and he felt real bad about what he did to daddy.

It will likely heal like any other bump. I fell while hiking in the desert and landed with my large camera between my pacer and the ground. The only thing that was damaged was my dignity, but the area was a bit sore for a week.

I see no problem at all in putting an ice pack on it occasionally for a day or so. I'm not a "always call the doctor" type and tend to just keep an eye on things. It might show a little bruising of the skin. Just watch for signs of swelling or red streaks around it in which case see the doc.

best,

frank

I've felt your pain!

by Marty - 2012-01-28 11:01:25

Hi, I have been hit several times in a similar way to what you describe, and it's scary. Amazing how much these things can take when you think about them being wired right into your heart! I got hit once by a racquetball racquet right on the defibrillator, which dented the case. As far as I could tell, it never had an effect on the performance of the ICD. Just pay attention to your symptoms, check BP, etc.

If redness/swelling doesn't go away in a few days, see your doctor!

Marty

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