Experiences of playing sports with a S-ICD?

[ActiveHCMgirl]

Hi, I have HCM. I am lucky enough that to date it has been entirely asymptomatic. It has not affected my exercise capacity and with careful advice from my cardiologist I've been able to continue to play competitive sports (netball and tennis) to a certain level, which I love and is really important to me.

Recent monitoring tests have led to my risk score for sudden cardiac death moving from the low category to a level where there isn't a definite recommendation for an ICD, but I have been advised to consider one. Even if I don't get one now it is probably something that is going to be strongly recommended within the next few years. It would be a S-ICD rather than a TV.

I would really love to hear the experiences of others who have played sports at a reasonably high level with an ICD, especially tennis (I play national level over 40s tennis). I want to know what this will be like, it has been on my mind how this important part of my life will be affected. Can you feel it when you play? Does it affect any strokes, notably a double handed backhand for a right hander?

Thank you for any experiences anyone is able to share.

[HM24]

Hi - don't have any answers I am afraid! However, I am in the same boat and having to consider ICD for HCM. I swim everyday to keep fit. Appreciate your sport is at a much higher level!

Coincidentally I have been reading about Leadless pacemakers last couple of days, because a pacemaker was suggested to me at last appointment. This fits straight into right ventricle and has no leads, which is good for active people. I am not keen on the idea of an ICD, but I also know that is my safest option.

I intend to discuss it further with my cardiologist to understand to what extent a pacemaker would correct a fast arrythmia. I guess for me I am trying to find a halfway house that minimises the risks but keeps me a bit safer. Like you my risk score isn't recommending an ICD, but been advised to still consider one.

There is so much new technology coming out, I feel confident the options will be far less invasive in the future.

Wish you all the best and would recommend having a chat to one of the BHF nurses, I suspect they are very knowledgeable on the cardiac devises.