torture

I have had a pacemaker/defib since March of '04. It only had one episode, which was handled well. However, now (in the last month or so), I constantly hear the damn thing ticking 24/7. It ticks when I try to sleep; it ticks all time! It is driving me crazy!

Dr. checked device and said all was well. But this ticking is driving me nuts because it forces me to think constantly about the fact that I am being kept alive by this machine.

If anyone can tell me why this is happening now after six years, I would love to know.

Thanks Papa. p.s. I feel like the crocodile in Peter Pan.

3 Comments

Idea

by ElectricFrank - 2010-08-29 12:08:24

Put a loud wall clock in your bedroom. It will drown out the ticking of the pacemaker.

frank

A possibility.

by Solarman - 2010-08-29 12:08:26

Some ICD’s make audible tones for a variety of situations. Some are programmed to do a “self check” every day at a specific time. If there is a problem, broken lead, low battery, etc. it will make a noise. If there is a more immediate problem the device may emit a constant tone. If your device starts making a tone contact the doctor/hospital that monitors your device. They will advise you what to do next.
I hope that helps best of luck,

Solarman

Something to check out

by PPMchick - 2010-08-30 06:08:16

I agree with Solarman. Most ICD's last for @3-6 years. Could be that it is now time for a new ICD. Most all ICD's will make a sound when it is time to replace the device. They will also alert you if there is a lead, battery issue and some can be programmed to alert you if you have had episodes. I would check back with the physician or clinic that checks your device. If you have it checked by phone (remote) an alert can be seen on the report also. Hope this helps you. :)

You know you're wired when...

Your device acts like a police scanner.

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