Anybody here have an installed heart defibrillator ?

[Mikey]

Just got back from the doc and he said I need an installed in chest heart defibrillator.

He said my meds aren't working to strengthen my heart so a defibrillator is VERY necessary.

Just wanted to know if anyone here has one or knows somebody who has one ?

Wanted ask if it hurts badly when you get shocked ?

[Nostalgiabuff]

Mike, my father in law has one. he did not mention any pain when it goes off. they recently had to change it out.
either way, beats dying right?

[The Bat]

Wow Mikey, that sucks. It seems scary to me, but technology has come a long way...I'm sure they know what they're doing.

[Rallygirl]

My best friend has one, in fact, she is on her third device. She says it is not painful when it goes off, but she can feel a small click. She also says that it is very uncomfortable for the first few weeks until it settles into it's muscle pocket in the chest wall.

[EmergencyIan]

Good luck, Mike. I'm sure it will work out.

- Ian

[Mikey]

Thanks guys

[jessica]

Rallygirl that sounds scary!! Good luck, Mike!!

[Rallygirl]

Rallygirl that sounds scary!! Good luck, Mike!!

I agree with Nostalgiabuff, it is better than dying. My best friend was checked for her genetic heart condition after her sister died unexpectedly at age 35. That was scary!

Barb stayed two days at the hospital when the defibrillator was initially placed. She was black and blue and sore for about a week, but after it settled in, the defibrillator is now undetectable at a glance. She goes back in once a year to have the batteries replaced, which is done as an outpatient procedure. The device also records the number of times it fires, so her doctors can determine if her heart is getting weaker.

Mike, a week of discomfort is better than being dead! Other than having to limit highly stressful activities (triathlons, skydiving, climbing Mount Everest) Barb is good to go with her defibrillator.

[thunderbolt]

Jeez, take care Mikey. I guess this puts you one step closer to Bionic!

[Mikey]

Jeez, take care Mikey. I guess this puts you one step closer to Bionic!

I was more thinking one step closer to in the 6 ft hole

[Gorn Captain]

You'd best have an informed talk with your doctor about the effects.
I sincerely doubt that the "shocks" are that intense, perhaps more intended to get a regular rhythm going?
Hope all goes well, man...