I am new to this forum and have just had an ICD (defibrillator) implanted 2 days ago and would like to know what people felt physically after having the implant apart from soreness whilst the wound heals. I am experiencing some tingling in my chin, left wrist and middle of my shoulder blades and wondering if this is normal?
Living with an ICD: I am new to this... - British Heart Fou...
Living with an ICD
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I had an ICD fitted on October 2016 and apart from the slight soreness that you mention I can't recall having any if the other feelings. I did however have a nasty infection in the site a few weeks after the implant, with the possibility of rejection, but was cleared up with antibiotics and everything was fine.
It take a bit of getting used to and I was told that it would take 6 to 12 months, but now I forget that I have it apart from being sensible with my excersizing as that is what causes my arrhythmia.
Even after over 2 years I am still conscious of not knocking it as there is only a thin layer of flesh covering it.
I was only able to sleep on my back for a while, but with time I was able to sleep on my right side and now it makes no difference.
Time is a great healer and just accept it, get used to it and live with it, it may save your life one day!
My partner had an S-ICD implanted 14 months ago. It took a few months to get him to forget it was there but now it is just part of him; There if he needs it.
If these unusual symptoms continue for a few more days I would suggest you give the cardiology department a ring and get them to check you out.
Good luck.
Had mine fitted on Sept 24th and like the others I couldn't sleep on my right side for a while but now it's ok. Was lucky had Jo soreness but very careful what I did with my left arm for a while. Now back gardening and playing golf. You do forget that it is there
Hi Cruiserlady. I agree with Sturon - contact the cardiology dept if these tinglings continue. I didn't have anything like that with mine. xx