ICD false firing

[Steve117]

Why would I be awakeing in the wee hrs of the morning thinking/feeling my defibrillator just went off?  I have had several events about 6 months ago when my ICD fired for real, 8-10 times consecutivly (die time).  Since then, with new meds and defrib adjustments, I have had several one time pseudo hits and the Drs. said it never happened.  Am I such a basket case or do I have Post Tramatic Stress Syndrome??  This really feels like the real thing.  How depressing thinking I'm a mental case on top of these heart issues.  I'm a 64 yo male in pretty good shape - observing the "rules" and feel fine.

[kevk]

Glad I could help you, I know a very good support group for people with ICD`s.  You can read about phantom shocks and some of the other issues us ICD patients go through. I am not permitted to give it out on this site but If you are intrested I will send you a link.  I have had my ICD since 1991 and this site has helped me a lot.

[Steve117]

Thanks alot for the explanation.  I've had a device since '95 and never had any probs untill this past year.  I know I worry alot abt it fireing since I had so many consecutive hits several months ago.  The agony thing is pretty intense.  

You told me something the Drs. never told me.  A good explaination does wonders for my psyche.

[kevk]

Hi Steve,
I have had my ICD for over sixteen years. What is happening to you are called phantom shocks, A lot of us with ICD`s had gone through this. There is nothing wrong with you this is a subconsious  thought that happens to most of us in our sleep.
I have had this several times after my ICD fired the first time. Please send me an email and I will help you through this. Just remember you are not the first or last person to have this, It is normal you are not going mental or alone.