ICD's

[crippledcowgirl]

Just wondering if anyone out there has an ICD? I have had mine for two  years and received my first shock a few weeks ago. I was in the shower and fainted...smashing my face against the tub. I busted a tooth and will need a root canal and got a nice goose egg on the head.  I am now struggling with anxieties about being shocked or fainting again. My doctor's now have me on a anti-arrhythmia drug called amiodarone.  If anyone out there has an ICD and would like to share their experience and how they cope...I would love to hear your story. Sometimes it's nice to know you are not alone.

[MarkOKC4863]

I have only had my ICD for two months, but I have already been shocked once 30 days after I got it.  I guess i'm kind of lucky if you can really call it lucky because after having my original experience and my first shock, I seem to have a short period of warning first.  Not to say that will always be the case, but so far, I seem to be of the minority in that I feel symptoms when I'm getting ready to pass out or get shocked.  So yea, I've only had it two months, but the Dr's confirmed that it did actually save my life when it shocked me, so it was what they called a true shock.

[BionicBabe]

check out http://www.icdsupportgroup.org/. This is a forum for ICD recipients. It is extremely helpful and you will find that what you are experiencing is very common. I have had an ICD for almost four months and I have not been shocked yet. At least you know your ICD is working. Good luck!

[Jarmal]

I have had an ICD for a year now and never been shocked and i am only 32 years old. i  am really happy to meet fellow people with the same equipment withinin them.
Thanks cripppledcow girl for the link i shall check it out.
PS Why the name Crippledcow girl. And does the shock feel?

[mamaof1234]

i am 37 years old just had my first shock a week ago.i have had my implant three months.i felt my arrythymia and got dizzy and blacked out so i idnt feel the shock.i was really shook up afterwards though.i seen my icd nurse and she said it saved my life. i am glad for that but i am having alot of anxiety problems from it.hope the meds help its scary not knowing when it might happen or where you might pass out at

[George712]

I had a friend with an ICD and he got shocks while walking or doing very mild physical activity.  It stopped once his ICD was reprogramed  to shock the heart at a more appropriate higher heart rate.  Ask your cardiologist / electrophysiologist / etc.....