Cardioversion biting tongue

[Freshorangejuice]

How do they prevent you during Cardioversion from biting your tongue as you are shocked and unconscious? Do they put a soft bite block between your teeth? I'm about to have a Cardioversion and have seen a number of videos including the BHF one and it seems to me that it is entirely possible you may accidentally bite your tongue?

[SaxmanAD]

Hi, I hope your ok. I've had 5 cardio versions & never had an issue with tongue biting or has it been discussed. Is this something you have researched or just a concern? Good luck with your cardio version.

[Alicant in reply to SaxmanAD]

Hi Saxman ..excuse my nosiness why 5 Cardioversion…My Cardio gave me the impression they would try one and if it didn’t work..that’s it!

[Freshorangejuice in reply to SaxmanAD]

As you say just a concern. Given that you are unconscious and having electric shocks I just presumed there would be something to prevent you biting down on your tongue. Looking at some American sites they do provide a soft bite block

[Visitingcat]

I worried and fretted before my last cardioversion because I had a bad tooth at the time that hurt every time it was touched, it was cracked and I was really worried about it breaking if I clenched my teeth when cardioverted.

I mentioned it to the nurse as I was going in and they said no, far too dangerous to put anything in your mouth and did I want to cancel?

I was desperate for the cardioversion, I’d never felt so symptomatic and ill so I said no please go ahead and it was absolutely fine. No effect on my mouth or teeth at all.

Just my experience, I wonder if this was a “thing” do you think they would mention it on the form you sign before the procedure? I didn’t see anything like that mentioned.

Hope everything goes well for you and you get back into normal rhythm : )

[Andyman]

I was shocked back to life during my heart attack and bit my tongue. It was the least of my worries at the time.

[MaudieElvis]

had 1 cardioversion with no tongue biting

I am due to have my second in next month. I suggest speak to nurse specialist if you are worried

[Eeee13]

I’ve had 2 cardio Versions never had any tongue issues. I’m sure if it was a problem they would have said about it in the pre-brief.

[Freshorangejuice in reply to Eeee13]

Thank you. Yes I'm sure you're right as there is no mention of it in the accompanying patient information pamphlet.