Living with a Pacemaker or ICD

Because of advances in technology, pacemakers and ICDs generally last several years (depending upon usage and the type of device) and, in most cases, allow a person to lead a normal life.

In addition, advances in  circuitry and insulation have reduced the risk of interference from machinery (such as microwaves) that in the past might have affected these surgically implanted cardiac devices. Even so, you must take certain precautions if you have a pacemaker or ICD.

What precautions should I take with my pacemaker?
Consider the following precautions and discuss them in detail with your physician:

• Always carry an ID card that states you have a pacemaker/ICD. It is recommended that you wear a medic alert bracelet or necklace if you have a device.
• Use caution when going through airport security detectors. Check with your physician about the safety of going through such detectors with your particular device.
• Avoid magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines or other large magnetic fields.
• Avoid using heat in physical therapy to treat muscles (also known as diathermy).
• Turn off large motors, such as cars or boats, when working on them. They might temporarily "confuse" your device.
• Avoid certain high-voltage or radar machinery, such as radio or television transmitters, electric arc-welders, high-tension wires, radar installations, or smelting furnaces.
• If you are having a surgical procedure performed by a surgeon or dentist, tell your surgeon or dentist that you have a pacemaker or ICD. That way, he or she will know not to use electrocautery to control bleeding. (Electrocautery can interfere with the pacemaker or ICD.)
• You might have to take antibiotic medication before any medically invasive procedure to prevent infections.
• Always consult your physician if you have any questions concerning the use of certain equipment near your pacemaker/ICD.

Can I participate in regular, daily activities with a pacemaker/ICD?
As you recover from the insertion surgery, your activities might be limited for a short period of time.

After recovery, though, people with pacemakers/ICDs should be able to do the same activities they enjoyed prior to the procedure, including:

• Exercise moderately, upon advice from your physician
• Drive your car or travel, if cleared by your physician
• Return to work
• Work in the yard or house
• Participate in sports and other recreational activities
• Take showers and baths
• Continue sexual relationships

When involved in a physical, recreational or sporting activity, avoid receiving a blow to the skin over the device. A blow to the chest near the pacemaker/ICD can affect its functioning. If you do receive a blow to that area, see your physician.

Always consult your physician when you feel ill after an activity, or when you have questions about beginning a new activity.

How can I ensure that my pacemaker is working properly?
Although your pacemaker is built to last several years, have it checked regularly to ensure that it is working properly.

Different physicians might have different schedules for checking devices. Some devices may be checked in the home using a telephone and special equipment provided by your device manufacturer.

Battery life, lead-wire condition and various functions are checked by performing a device interrogation. During an interrogation, the device is connected to a computer using a magnet and a special machine.

Your physician might ask you to check your pulse rate periodically.

Contact your physician immediately if you have any unusual symptoms or symptoms similar to those you had prior to the device insertion.

Always consult your physician for more information if you need it.