LIVING WITH AN IMPLANTABLE DEFIBRILLATOR

An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is a small electronic device that is implanted in your chest to monitor heart rhythm and detect irregular heartbeats. It is used to monitor and help in regulating life-threatening electrical problems with the heart and cardiac arrhythmias.

It can be scary when you are first learning how to navigate life with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator. It can be especially nerve-racking when it is implanted quickly as a result of a sudden cardiac arrest.

However, the good news is that a cardioverter defibrillator is actually very effective in regulating irregular heartbeats and can help you live a long and healthy life.

ICD’s generally last 5-7 years after being first implanted, so it is easy to resume your life as normal. However, there are some things to keep in mind as you learn to adapt to life with a pacemaker or ICD.

Tips for Living with an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator

When the ICD is first placed in your chest, your heart doctor in Dubai will give you an overview of how to navigate life with an implantable defibrillator. Here are some more tips to keep in mind:

Continue with Treatment

Remember that an ICD or pacemaker is not a cure for heart disease. It is a device used to prevent cardiac arrest and regular heartbeat. However, the heart disease will still be present, and you must follow the treatment plan prescribed by your heart doctor in Dubai.

The best cardiologist doctor in Dubai will provide a treatment plan according to your particular heart condition, which generally includes medication and lifestyle changes. Be sure to continue with your treatment regularly while you have the ICD.

Monitor your Device

Throughout the time that you have the pacemaker placed, your heart doctor in Dubai may check it several times. This allows them to assess how wires are working, battery life, and how your condition and any external devices have affected the ICD’s performance.

Moreover, the best cardiologist doctor in Dubai will use a special analyzer to detect the first warning of your battery life running out. This way, there will be no sudden stoppage of the ICD device.

 

Understand What You Can and Cannot Do

 Thanks to advancements in technology, there are few things that interfere with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator’s performance. Here are some basic things to know:

• You can shower and go in water with an ICD
• Cars, trains, and airplanes do not affect the ICD
• Microwaves do not interfere with a pacemaker
• Inform your dentist or doctor that you have an ICD before any procedure
• Avoid magnets and strong electrical fields
• Inform airport security or other screeners that you have an ICD
• You should perform all of your normal activities within a few days of surgery (except for heavy lifting and high-impact activities).

As you can see, settling back into regular life with an implantable defibrillator is relatively easy, aside from a few activities. However, you should consult with your cardiologist doctor in Dubai as you begin to settle back into your everyday activities.

German Heart Centre – The Best Heart Doctor in Dubai

If you are interested in learning more about how an ICD will affect your life, or if you are seeking a reliable cardiologist doctor in Dubai that can provide care throughout your time with a pacemaker, then visit the German Heart Centre.

Our team of specialist cardiologists in Dubai are dedicated and experienced in treating patients for a variety of heart conditions. Our cardiac surgeons in Dubai can also effectively place an ICD or pacemaker, and provide ongoing care once placed. Book an appointment now!