Sleeping with an ICD device

[DennisMenace68]

I would be hugely grateful for any advice. My partner has been offered an ICD device but is uncertain whether to go ahead, he is worried about a few things related to the device, but impact on sleeping with the device is one of them. If you have an implanted device how have you found sleeping since you have had it? Any other insights on living with the device also helpful - thank you

[Hanibil]

Hi I had a CRT-D implant in 2019 it has no effect on my sleeping whatsoever and I don’t even realise I even have it. As for thinking on whether to have one the Doctors must think it is necessary or they wouldn’t have offered him one . My advice would be grab it with both hands .

[crhyswilliams]

Hi! I had an ICD fitted 18 months ago and can say that, apart from the first few weeks after surgery, I don't even know it's there. Sure, you're conscious of it after it's been fitted but once the swelling has gone and the the body recovered you can just get on with life as you're used to.

I really wouldn't worry, they are incredible little devices that could save your life.

[tfb99]

hi there,

Have had mine fitted for some two years now. It has had no impact on my sleep at all, after the initial discomfort. It has however saved my life , and this while I was asleep. While that was not a pleasant experience, it saved my life. So, as the saying is “ if you want to live……..”

it truly is a lifesaver, and what’s not to like about that

tfb

[sturon]

Hi and welcome to the forum. My hubby had an S-ICD implanted 6 years ago. The first few weeks take some adjusting too as the implant wound heals. After that he just forgets he has 'Sparky', as he calls it. Two minor adjustment he has had to make. The first is he cannot use our induction hob as it has a magnetic field and the second he bypasses airport security and has a personal check instead of going through the usual scanners. As for sleeping your partner should find no difficulty once the wound has fully healed.

Just remember this is like having their own paramedic monitoring 24/7 and could save their life.

[Gordon_N in reply to sturon]

All of the above. I had an ICD fitted in 2020 after surprise cardiac arrest. It is your new insurance policy. Has already saved my life once since then. Sleeping not a problem - if they think your husband needs it, then don't hesitate.

[Bingo88]

Good morning DennisMenace68. 1st thing the icd is obviously required and will save your life and the procedure to implant it is nothing I had mine done while fully awake and they just deafened my shoulder with some numbing agents. Once the procedure is over you are not allowed to drive straight away. It depends on why it was implanted. As to if you have to wait for dvlc to give you the ok to start driving again. You can't raise your arm above your shoulder height for 6 weeks so button up shirts are best to wear. Regards sleeping it's difficult to sleep on the shoulder for a month I found it difficult. But get a V pillow and prop yourself up till it settles down and since the procedure I have had no problems sleeping. Brian

[Bruce67]

So glad you posted this question, and for the reassuring replies. I am due an ICD end of April and had same question in my mind!

[DennisMenace68 in reply to Bruce67]

I am pleased it has been helpful for you too. Hope all goes well with your procedure & recovery.

[PersonalTrainer_GH48]

Hey there,I've had an ICD for 2 years now and forget I actually have it implanted. Have had no issues at all when sleeping. I call it my "BORG implant' (star trek geek). It's saved my live twice whilst they were adjusting meds at the start.

So I definitely recommend one if you're offered it ❤️

[honeybubs]

Have the device it’s there to save your life one day. First month after fitted feels uncomfortable but ok when you get over that part. The procedure is just a bit uncomfortable but it didn’t bother me at all and they make you drowsy during doing it so you might sleep all the way through it. I’ve always been a terrible sleeper so still the same but it’s nothing to do with the pacemaker. It also gives you confidence to do more things without worrying as you’ve got your own little paramedic inside you lol

[Deejay62]

5 yrs ago I had a CRT-D fitted to replace a CRT-P which I had for about 8 yrs.

Sleeping isn’t a problem it’s usually in a position where sleeping position’s aren’t affected. I forget I even have one most of the times.

When I first had one fitted it took me a little time to get used to it, but because I knew I had to have it I persevered and I was glad I did.

I got used to the second one even quicker I stayed in overnight and went home the next day, then the day after I went into work. I think that’s why I recovered quickly. It took my mind off of it.

[DennisMenace68]

Thank you so much to all of you who have replied so far, I really appreciate all of your responses ⭐

[Pouchielou1972]

Hi DennisMenace68 my comment follow the sane vein as everyone else. It was tricky sleeping in the first few weeks whilst healing and you're fairly aware of the device, but I am 2 years on and sleep like a baby forgetting it's there most of the time. A V pillow is a must! Some comfy for propping yourself up and allows you to sleep soundly. The reassurance that you have your own private paramedic with you everywhere you go is so reassuring. All the best 🙌🏾

[DennisMenace68 in reply to Pouchielou1972]

Thank you for sharing how it has been for you, the V pillow is a good tip too 😀