icd unit

for those of u in the know, what is the usual adjustment time to these implants? just got the combo pacemaker/defib in april. april and may seemed to go just fine. then june 28th, got a surprise shock. since it was a single event and i had a doctors appt the next week, i stayed home. however, jul 5th got 6 shocks in a row and needless to say, went to the hospital. over 21 episodes of vtacs seemed to be the culprit. with new medication and reasurrances, i have come back home. much more apprehensive than b4. are these problems normal and if so, approx time it takes to get things fine tuned. medication problems are one thing. getting shocked multiple times is a whole new ball game. any insight??????

1 Comments

Zapped 5x

by bunnykin - 2010-07-12 01:07:04

Yes I share your apprehension regarding zaps. I had a PM in 2002 which was later upgraded to ICD in 2004 due to Ventricular tachycardia (VT). This Jan my heart went crazy and had tachycardia and was shocked 5x in a row. It wasn't a good experience you can say that again!! I don't see how one can ever get "used" to such a thing....we must try not be zapped if ever, again.
Your EP will tell you if your shocks were appropriate or inappropriate. If he can program your settings in such a way that only when absolutely necessary that your device comes in to give therapy.
I had a horrid few months thereafter since Jan and went into slight depression and constant fear. I sincerely hope that your problem can be resolved by tweaking the ICD somewhat so it won't be so sensitive; However if what happened was really a life saving zap, well, you have no choice but require them. God bless and warm regards. bunnykin

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