Had my Defib for 2 months

I had Vtach (240 pulse) as a result from a heart infection 18 years ago. They attempted ablation, but I had to much scaring from the infection.

Even after 2 months, I still can't stand the thing. Before I went into surgery, I knew I might get one, but little did I realize it was the size of a flip cell phone. Unfortunately I'm relatively fit, so there isn't a lot of tissue that could be removed, so it sticks up 1/8th an inch or so (worse towards my shoulder or if I move at all).

I also had an episode of SVT (285 pulse) which the defib corrected. I have issues with determining what feels like tachycardia and what doesn't. I did not pass out with either event, just got light headed. I wear a pulse monitor when working out so I can judge what is exertion and what isn't.

Do you ever really get over the implant? I know I probably will never look at or touch it myself, just interested in peoples state of mine about their implant.

Also, does anyone else have a defib that itches occassionally?

1 Comments

state of mind

by zapper - 2007-11-25 01:11:19

Hi Turboz24, I too have an ICD because of vtach. I've had mine in since Jan 3rd 2007 and I still feel it everyday depending on what I'm doing, along with it having its itchy moments. As far as my state of mind I can say its alot better than it was 2 months after I had mine put in. I'm sure you'll start feeling better about it as time goes by. My situation was compounded by the fact that I lost my career as a commercial truck driver so it became a struggle for a while but I've since entered into a new career as a rhvac mechanic. I just dont let myself sit around thinking about my device all the time wondering when its going to go off. I think of it as having an insurance policy. Drop me a line anytime if you just need someone to talk about things with.

You know you're wired when...

You have a $50,000 chest.

Member Quotes

A properly implanted and adjusted pacemaker will not even be noticeable after you get over the surgery.