Frequently asked questions
Is it dangerous to use electrical appliances?
Household appliances do not pose a risk to the ICD carrier. Any appliance such as hair dryers, dishwashers, TV, razor, computer, drills can be used normally. The exception to this are induction cookers, which can interfere with the ICD, so it is recommended to keep a distance of 60 cm from them.
Can I do sport?
The ICD does not pose a risk to the practice of any sport at an electrical level. However, certain precautions must be taken when playing contact sports such as rugby, basketball or soccer. The practice of sports alone (swimming, sailing, running…) is not recommended due to possible dizziness or fainting.
Do I have to notify that I am wearing a device if I go to a hospital?
You should always notify healthcare personnel that you are an ICD carrier. They will know how to proceed in case you need to do any procedure that may affect the operation of the device.
How do follow-ups, reviews and replacement work?
It is important that you attend check-ups with your cardiologist to check the condition of the device and the cables and thus make sure that everything is working correctly, or to adjust parameters if necessary.
The useful life of the ICD depends on many factors, such as the amount of shocks or pacing needed, but generally it lasts about 7 years. During face-to-face or remote follow-ups, the state of the battery is also evaluated to plan the replacement of the device in advance. In case you need a replacement, it is a very simple and quick intervention in which you simply disconnect the cables from the old ICD and connect to the new one.
Is the use of a mobile phone dangerous?
Mobile phones do not pose a risk to the patient at a distance of 15 cm from the device. To maintain safety, it is enough to talk on the phone on the opposite side of the ICD and not keep it in the jacket pockets near the chest.
Is travelling a risk?
Certain precautions must be taken during security checks at airports. ICD patients must always carry the card that identifies them as ICD carriers. With this identifier, you will avoid going through the metal detector, which affects the operation of the device.
Can I drive?
The regulations on driving vehicles for patients with ICDs can be found in Spanish legislation. The most important thing you should know is that you cannot drive any vehicle until 3 months after implantation if you are a secondary prevention patient and 1 month if you are a primary prevention patient. If you have received a shock for the device, you will also have to wait 3 months until you can drive. On the other hand, there are limitations for patients with heart disease. It is recommended to consult with your cardiologist for more detailed information.