Using Household Items with an Implanted Pacemaker/ICD. Electromagnetic interference (EMI) explained
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- Опубликовано: 7 июн 2024
- Have you ever asked yourself "Can I use this household item safely with my implanted device?" Microwave ovens, power drills, electric blankets, lawn mowers and more can all be used with just a little bit of knowledge and precaution.
Learn how the items we use in our homes every day generate electromagnetic energy, or electromagnetic interference (EMI) and how that interference can interact with our devices if we aren't careful. Being safe is easy, and we can safely use 99% of the household items around us with just a little precaution. Learn about EM fields, how they interact with our devices, and what precautions we can take to live safely, free from fear.
***Please note, I am not a medical professional giving medical device. For more information google the name of your medical device manufacturer + the term "electromagnetic compatibility guide". There you will find a published guide your device manufacturer has created to help you better understand which items you can use safely and which items require a bit more care. Much of the information from this video was taken from the EMC guides produced by Medtronic, Boston Scientific and Abbott (formerly St. Jude).
Awesome stuff, Doug! So glad your health issues had a happy resolution. The service you're now providing to our unique little 'zipper' club (Severely Stenotic Aortic valve replacement with 3x bp and dual channel PM for me) is invaluable. I'm chain-watching your vids and appreciating the edification and peace-of-mind they instill. God Bless and carry on ... ^v^
I had an ICD implanted in the past month and my wife and I have watched all your videos. Thank you very much, they have helped us tremendously in getting to know how these work and what we should be aware of. Thanks again.
Another great video, thank you.
Great information! Thanks Doug! :)
Terrific advice, thanks for sharing.
Your videos are really helpful. Thank you so much
Hi Doug I had my important yesterday I’m watching your videos very helpful thanks a lot
Thank you for putting my mind at rest.🌷
Very informative and well explained. Thanks for posting this.
Thank you for this
thank you. nice presentation. subscribed.
Sir thanks for your important information you doing a great job thanks again sir..
Thanks again for a great informative video. 🤗
Great info. Thanks. I won't be hugging anything suspicious...hey, that goes for anyone!
Thank you for your very helpful information!! I have a body/fat weigh scale and never knew I should not use it in spite of researching. Subscribed!
Thank you so much for straight forward info and without annoying background elevator music
Thanks, helpful stuff for sure.
Subbed!
ThAnk you for. The informative. Video
Thanks for the information. At the moment I am waiting for a changeover new pacemaker and haven't had any problems with the current one but I was told that I could use a portable power saw as long as I kept the proper distance but haven't tried one yet but I will I think try just once.
Just had my PM procedure 8 days ago. Thanks for these videos. Hospital just sent me on my way with my booklet.. which I did read, but your videos are extremely helpful and comforting. Blessings to you .
"...for all of you who use a real measuring system" Hahaha! You're the best Doug - thank you for all your informative videos!
Very Useful !!
Found the information you presented is very reassuring I’m waiting for pacemaker so finding out what you can do can’t do
Very informative and reassuring Thankyou 👍
Good video my husband is getting a pacemaker tomorrow. He never uses tools so were good . Never welded anything.
Thanks for posting this. I am an engineer working in the auto industry. Although my job is mostly indoors, I do have to go to the process (at the plant or in our labs), in my case there are lots of robots that spray paint with high voltage. During my visits to the plant, I have been staying away from the paint booth and away from robot controllers, high voltage areas and the rectifiers. I was also made aware from my EP and my ICD rep that I should stay away from welding areas. Our safety department also has guidelines to stay 2-ft away from controllers.
Thanks a lot for the video sir
Thank you for the info, I get my ICD in a few days. I weld, fix my own vehicles and use machines regularly. I was getting a bit concerned about what I would be able to do after the implant.
Was on my third single chamber pacemaker several months ago and learned that my EF was 35 so a discussion arose about whether to go to a dual chamber PM or a Defibrillator. I’m 74 and very active so I ended up with an ICD last month (9/22/21). I’m a weldor and had been welding all during my PM days keeping my amperage below 130 and the stinger cable off of my body. No issues. I wondered what kind of additional limitations would be involved with this ICD. After viewing your information here, I’m relieved to learn that my welding days will not be over. Thank you!
Thanks Doug Come Tuesday, October 25, 2022 I’m about to have a defibrillator and planet thanks for this information
Doug I just received my S ICD implant 7 days ago been watching your videos they have helped ease anxiety thank you for your time. And I need to let you know that you favor Jim Carrey LOL ✌
Aaaaalrighty then! I’m a huge fan, so I’ll take that as a compliment. And thanks for your note. I’m glad to hear my videos have been of some help.
Thank you good info
How can I not subscribe to your channel? ☺️ In 9 min & 20 secs, you changed my life! I am so glad I found this video and your channel.
My husband just got his SubQ ICD and will be coming home tomorrow. We have a magnet mattress pad that sits between our box spring and mattress, so I will be calling on his brother to help me remove it. We also have a full body scanning scale, so I will be purchasing a new scale just for him.
Now to go and watch your other videos to help us navigate this new life of ours. Thank you, again!
Hi Milei, thanks for watching. I’m glad you found the info helpful! Here’s a little more that might be helpful. If the magnets/mattress pad you are describing is between the box spring and mattress (so, NOT on top of the mattress where you lay directly on it) then you don’t have to worry about those. They will be far enough away and won’t be an issue. Magnetic strength dissipates very quickly over distance. So much that any magnets we will come into contact with in a home will be entirely safe at 6 inches of distance. This includes even super powerful rare earth magnets. So if your mattress has magnets on the bottom side of the mattress (usually there to hold the mattress in place with the box spring), then those aren’t a concern.
And, if your husband does happen to get too close to a magnet the SICD will emit a short series of beeps for 8-10 seconds. It sounds like a truck backing up (beep-beep-beep-beep…). It doesn’t harm the device to be in close contact with a magnet, but you shouldn’t keep a magnet next to an SICD, especially while sleeping. So, if he hears that beeping tone he’ll know for sure those magnets are too close. I hope that helps! Good luck to you both!
This is a great video - I’ve had an ICD for over 10 years and although there is a little vague written advise about EMI and pacemakers and ICDs it’s not very clear of definitive. I’m a knife maker and use power tools and machines every day in my work. I also have a number of welders - I’m always carful with distance and what’s called duty cycle which is the unbroken time spent on each weld application. I never use MMA Manual Metal Arc (stick welding) because it’s the highest amperage and thus can cause the most interference. Thanks for taking the time to make this 👌🏻 Hugely appreciated - best regards Mic - Wales 🏴 UK
Thanks Mic, I appreciate the comments!
Thank you so much. I got my pacemaker 4 weeks ago and am a worry wart. Your videos are great and informative.
Thanks for posting these Doug. I've had my ICD for 4 yrs,due for change in 8 months. I'm still learning things about my implant,thanks to folks like you. By the way, how about magnetic bracelets? I've seen some types of magnetic "wear", supposedly to help with arthritis. I'm assuming 6" applies there as well. Thanks again for posting,stay safe.
Thanks for your comment, and thanks for watching John. You do need to be careful with the magnetic bracelets. They are sometimes strong enough to trigger the magnet response with an ICD. If this happens while you’re sleeping, with your arm across your chest, you may never know that your device has suspended therapies and would be unable to shock you if needed. So it’s recommended that you not wear a magnetic bracelet or watch strap, but if you do, definitely don’t wear it while you sleep or take a nap.
THANK YOU! This all should be explained & WRITTEN for patients by thier Doctors, but they are ALL TO LAZY!
Great Zoom demo ... my leaf blower is to powerful and I need my fillings. I am a Medtronic Device customer.
It was great speaking with you yesterday Bill. See you at the next support group meeting!
Doug, this was great! I have been looking for info. on dental devices and patients w/ pacemakers or ICDs. Specifically, the ultrasonic scalers hygienists use in cleaning teeth. They are about 6 inches from a pacemaker (shoulder region) and are used for many minutes at a time. Can you find anything more current than 2015? New pacemakers with shields? Thanks!!
Hi Amy, thanks for watching. The best source of info is the device manufacturer of the implanted device in question. Each one has an Electromagnetic Compatibility guide that covers just about anything you might run into. For example, of the Medtronic EMI guide (found here: www.medtronic.com/us-en/patients/electromagnetic-guide/medical-dental.html ) you’ll find dental ultrasonic scalers/cleaners in the “acceptable/no known risk” section. It’s always a good idea to let your dentist and dental hygienist know before your appointment that you have an implanted device, just so they are aware and can do their best to keep a little distance from your device. I hope that helps.
I weld , drill etc the only thing I'm wary about is a microwave. My welder (MIG ) I shielded it to stop the EMI field.
Doug, great videos - all have been very informative! I've had the Medtronic CRT-D device for 2 weeks now. I reviewed the site, but I didn't see a reference to chest strap HR monitors. I normally use a Polar H10 during workouts to monitor my HR. I've asked Medtronic if this type device, due to it's bluetooth connection, poses a risk. For my better understanding, can you clarify if bluetooth communication potentially interferes with signals picked up by the leads, or does it somehow interfere with the generator itself? Wondering if I can just wear the strap lower on my chest or to the opposite side of the generator. Thank You!
Hi Tim, I haven't been able to find anything on a chest strap specifically, but Medtronic's Ask the ICD website has information on wearing a heart rate monitor. They say there's no issue as long as it doesn't contain a magnet, which they usually don't. I wear a Polar H7 watch and chest strap while I work out, and when compared to my ICD data during a doctor's office visit I've found the H7 is within 3-4 bpm of my ICD, so I rely on it heavily. There is no known interference between Bluetooth items and our implanted devices. In fact, the newer devices contain Bluetooth technology themselves. I hope that helps! Here's the link to the Ask the ICD website: asktheicd.com/tile/269/english-life-with-an-icd/can-i-wear-a-heart-rate-monitor-with-my-icd/
Hi Doug am scheduled to get my ICD/PM implanted in a month due to my AFib & HCM I am so anxious, stressed & depressed thinking about the surgery, shocks that I will experience. Your videos are very enlightening & you are such a positive person , very informative & I appreciate your time in making all these videos that helps ICD recipients.
Have you experienced a shock on your ICD ? How does it feel? Take care
Hi Renita, Thanks for watching and for the nice comments. I have not had the "pleasure" of experiencing a shock of my own. From what I hear most people are unconscious during an appropriate shock, but some are not, and some people experience inappropriate shocks (these are shocks where the device gets tricked and delivers a shock when it shouldn't---while these happen they are fairly rare). In those cases, I've heard it described as like being kicked in the chest by a horse, but that the shock is instantaneous and over immediately. Most describe it as surprising more than painful. My suggestion is that you try not to worry about shocks. They good ones only happen when you need it and it will save your life. The bad ones (the inappropriate shocks) are not common and can usually be avoided in the future once they happen. Good luck on your implant!
Thanks Doug! Your videos are great! Sometimes I forget I have my device. Once I was carrying my iPad (which has a cover with magnetic flap) like a book and suddenly heard a tone...looking around, not knowing what the noise was, I realized it was my device tone, that I hadn’t heard since my last cardio visit. 😂 Magnets. 🙄
Hi Douglas, first of all thanks a lot for the videos, are very instructive. My question, i work with a handie (walkie-talkie) 9 hrs a day, it has any risk to use it having an ICD implanted? Sorry my english i'm from Uruguay, South América
Hello Obi Wan (Love your Star Wars movies!!), you asked if using walkie talkies is okay. It depends on the strength of the walkie talkies. If you’re using a low priced “kids” walkie talkie you don’t have anything to worry about. But if you’re using a much stronger industrial or military type walkie talkie you may need to take some precautions. You can find walkie talkies listed on Medtronic’s Electromagnetic Compatibility guide in the “2-foot” section here: www.medtronic.com/us-en/patients/electromagnetic-guide/communication-office.html This says that if the walkie talkie uses 3-15 watts you should keep the antenna at least 2 feet (60cm) away from your device.
If you have any concerns your best course of action will be to call the manufacturer of your device to get more details. They will have the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Good vid thanks for the information. I think we cannot use a tens unit.
Most medical device companies recommend asking your physician if a TENS unit can be used. The most common advice I have heard is that using a TENS unit on your limbs or head is okay, but not on your torso.
Whoa, genuinely did NOT know about the induction cooktop thing! That explains SO much. Wow, I usually run everything through MedTronic's list, but I never even thought of that. Thank you. What is your recommendation on electric toothbrushes? That's something that would kind of have to be within 6 inches of my device, for at least 2 minutes..
Jacqueline -Good news is that electric and sonic toothbrushes are on the “No Known Risk” list. You can use them normally without concern! The tooth brush charging base should be kept 6” away from your device, but who holds a charging base like that anyway? 😊
@@DouglasRachac haha, excellent point! I certainly do not. I'm excited that I can get an electric toothbrush! Haha, silly thing to get excited over but nevertheless, I am. Thank you so much for your videos. I've had my device for 7 years (on June 05) and still don't know everything I feel I should, but your videos have helped me to be more informed and to translate these things to my loved ones. Keep it up! 😊
Hello Dough , very informative thanks . I have a waterbed with the heating device in the food area . Do you think it’s disturb my implanted pacemaker ? I couldn’t find any warning about that . Thanks for your help .
Hey thanks for the note. I appreciate it! Water bed heaters are a low power item, kind of like a heating pad or electric blanket. There are no restrictions for those items, and with the waterbed heating element being by your feet it would be far enough away to be safe for your device. I hope that helps.
Thanks for your great videos. I wondered if you could help. I cannot find any such compatibility guide for the model Medtronic azure w3dr01 2 lead pacemaker, I can only find technical information about it. Thanks
Hi Bev, thanks for watching. The compatibility guides are universal for each company’s devices, meaning there’s just one guide per company for all of their cardiac devices. Medtronic’s EMC guide can be found here: www.medtronic.com/us-en/patients/electromagnetic-guide.html This guide covers the Azure as well. I hope that helps!
@@DouglasRachac thank you, I will have a good read. Keep up your good work, you really explain things very well. I have watched some of your other videos too and they are very informative. Wishing you all the best
Thanks for all the practical information across all your videos. As someone who just had an ICD implanted, it is very helpful. Wondering if you would have any insight into sound equipment, specifically speakers and amplifiers. I work part time as a sound engineer and was wondering where they fall on the distance list (my guess is a couple feet). Is there a giuideline on the emf field reading for a device and the distance required? Also, you mention bench grinder. I have only one arm and need to get a little closer than most to sharpen mower blades, etc. Is there a way to shield or measure the EMF from these devices to add additional protection for the ICD? Again, thanks for all the great information,.
Hi Paul, thanks for watching! The sound equipment won’t be a problem. Speakers contain large magnets, but magnetic strength dissipates quickly over a short distance, so as long as you aren’t hugging speakers you’ll be fine. Same goes for sound boards and such. If you’re using them normally you won’t have a problem.
The recommendation for a bench grinder is 2 feet, but the medical device industry is very, very conservative and risk averse. That means that any recommendation they give you will have a huge margin for error built in. And that’s usually at least 2X what is really needed. So, while the recommendation is 2 feet, you are very likely to be safe at 1 foot, maybe less. Generally speaking I follow the “Don’t Hug It” rule. If at anytime you feel odd or off, back away from the item you’re using and everything should go back to normal. Then start up again with a few extra inches of distance added in to see how it goes. I hope that helps.
@@DouglasRachac Thank you very much!
Folks if you have an ICD or a pacemaker you should be reading your specific device manuals. Writing down your questions to ask your doctor. Be your own healthcare advocate.
What is a body fat scale? I have a wyze scale..
My specialist said the only thing I couldn't do is sit inside a microwave oven, otherwise life as normal.
A lot of the restrictions we have with implanted devices are pretty common sense things. Like, don’t sit in a microwave oven, and don’t hug a running chainsaw.
😅 good to know! Thank goodness I’m too big to fit in.
😮
Thank you for all your great information. I started working out at a facility that uses a Bluetooth activated heart monitor that we put around our rib cage in between and just under our breast. Since my dual chamber pacemaker was inserted in me my heart monitor does not register any of my numbers. It gets stuck on one number or does not register at all. I keep it at least 6 inches away from my device and it still does not work. Any advise?
Hi Kim, the heart rate monitor and your device won’t interfere with each other, but some heart rate monitors and wearables have a hard time reading paced beats from a pacemaker. That may be the issue you’re seeing here.
Helped me to understand before I get to see my doctor on follow up. 37 and just got a pacemaker. I like to wear headphones, would that be a problem?
Hi JD, no, no problem wearing them. The med-device companies recommend that you not hang them around your neck. That would put the magnets inside the headphones within 6 inches (15cm) of your device, and that is not recommended. But wearing them is just fine.
@@DouglasRachac k
According to Medtronic, the guys who made my pacemaker, a magnetic source can also put the pacemaker in "magnetic mode" that is the default setting for my device. The BPM with reset to 85 beats minimum threshold. When this happens, get to a doctor who can reprogram for your needs. My minimum threshold is programmed for 60bpm by the doctor. Magnetic mode won't hurt you, but you want to have it set correctly. I spoke at length with a Medtronic tech in person with my surgeon also in the room.
Hi Demo, Yes, a magnet placed on a pacemaker will cause the pacemaker to switch into an asynchronous mode. That means it will beat at a constant rate regardless of what your heart’s natural heartbeat is doing. For Medtronic devices the pacemaker will beat at 85 bpm. Other manufacturers have different rates up to 110 bpm. This is an intentional design feature. Once you remove the magnet the device will switch back to its original programming. There is no need to visit your doctor to reprogram the device, it will make that switch back to its regular programming on its own. I talk a bit about this feature in this video: ruclips.net/video/0v3R57FKDBE/видео.html This is different than electromagnetic interference which doesn’t have the same effect as a magnet. EMI can cause your device to see rhythms that aren’t there, or can mask your natural heartbeat causing the device to pace or withold pacing when it shouldn’t.
Thank you for your great effort in making these videos. Do electric shaver and mobile headphones cause damage to the device?? I have a device for about two months
Hi Mohammad, thanks for watching! An electric shaver will not harm your device. It is recommended that if the razor is corded (plugged into an outlet) that you try to keep it 6 inches (15 cm) away from your device. That's a bit difficult to do while you're shaving. But if you limit the time it is within that 6 inch/15 cm range to a few seconds at a time you won't have any problems.
headphones and ear buds are also safe. It is recommended that headphones be kept 6 inches/15 cm away from the device because they contain magnets. But wearing them isn't a concern. I hope that's helpful.
@@DouglasRachac 😍😍
@@DouglasRachac Thank you for your message, you are a wonderful person, but I did not understand what it means to have a shaving machine tied to a wire. Please explain and thank you.
@@mohammadfadliehtji8945 Most razors today are battery powered and it’s okay to use those. But if you have one with a power cord (like this one: images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61g5zAqfYML.__AC_SX300_QL70_ML2_.jpg) you will want to be a bit more careful. The recommendation is to keep these 6 inches from your device, but I wouldn’t be too concerned about using one myself.
Will probably have a CRT-D early November. I have a pretty powerful whole house generator (13,500 watt) not used often although tested monthly. What do you think?
Hi Dirk, thanks for watching. That would be a great question to ask the manufacturer of your device. You can call their Patient Services call center and they should be able to answer that for you. My guess is they will recommend 2 feet of distance between the running generator and your device. And remember that a few seconds inside that range won’t be an issue to your device.
@@DouglasRachac Will definitely question them when that day comes. Like the content you have on your channel. Great info, keep up the good work!
what about vibrations ?
Hi Doug, recently i was exposed to IMF device(its a healing device for physical body), for safety sack don't want to use the name but its a German made. My EF dropped to 20% from 38-40 range. I fell dizzy and loose breath while walking or talking. My Q to you is, what can i do to raise EF? Does any kind of food/fruits etc raise EF?
i had few episodes of shock also.
Hello Ranjnish, thanks for watching my video! I'm sorry to hear you received a few shocks. I hope they were appropriate shocks, which means your device is working as its supposed to. Unfortunately, I do not know the answer to your question. I just don't have the expertise in this area. This would be best answered by your doctor. One question you can ask your doctor is if changing your device from an ICD to a CRT-D to treat your low EF would be appropriate for you. Take care!
Hi Doug. Have a random question for ya. How would having a 100% dependent pacemaker/defibrillator unit affect a polygraph exam? I'm not up to anything shady but was reading some true crime and saw that the perp had a pacer so it was canceled. Have you heard of this?
That's a great question! And one that Medtronic addresses on their new HeartDeviceAnswers website. Basically the polygraph won't harm the device, but a pacemaker that is pacing can mess with the results of the polygraph. You can find that answer here: www.medtronic.com/en-us/heart-device-answers/search-results/search-result.can-someone-with-a-heart-device-use-a-polygraph-machine.html
Thanks for the great video. I haven’t done any research yet but what are your thoughts on playing an electric guitar? My first thought is to stay away from the amps speaker magnet for sure. But holding and strumming the chords for long periods of time has me questioning this? Also, young kids have these implanted in the abdomen so they would seem more at risk?
Fortunately, electric guitars are listed by the device manufacturers as one of the items in the “No known risk” category, meaning you can use them without any precautions. You can find the electromagnetic compatibility guides on the different manufacturer’s websites. For example, here is Medtronic’s: www.medtronic.com/us-en/patients/electromagnetic-guide.html
If you weren’t aware, Guns and Roses guitarist Slash has had an ICD for a couple of decades, and it hasn’t slowed him down one bit! You shouldn’t hug the speakers and amps, but you don’t need to be extra cautious with them. Just 6 inches of distance between those items and your device is plenty to be safe. Even sitting on a speaker would put your device far enough away from the electrical or magnetic components that could cause a problem. I hope that info helps!
That’s awesome, thanks for the info. My son will be able to enjoy worry free guitar playing. The EP nurses weren’t really informative. That’s crazy Slash has had one that long.
I would mention that the pick ups on the instrument are rather powerful little magnets. While I wouldn’t personally be concerned with playing, I would be careful about holding the instrument so there’s a good distance between the leads/ device and the pick-up(s).
I was not clear on the thinkgs to avoid at the end. Magnetic blanket pad magnetic mattress pad? Do you mean a heated blanket and a heated mattress pad?
Heated blankets and heated mattress pads are completely safe to use. I use both during the frigid Minnesota winters. But there are some people who believe in the healing power of magnets, and so they use blankets and mattress pads with magnets embedded in them. These items are not recommended for people with implanted heart devices because they can interfere with the normal functioning of those devices.
Hey there, I was wondering where I could maybe find some more of those EKG diagrams? Lol mainly looking for "EKG" diagrams when the pacemaker is exposed to em fields from every day
E.g smartphone, metal detector etc
Hi Joseph, If you're referring to the EKG printout I showed you can Google "Pacemaker EMI Interference" and click on Images and you'll see several excellent examples there. I hope that helps.
@@DouglasRachac ok thank you, lol ended up finding some things that will work it's for an assignment lol
Hi Doug is't safe to use a corded hair trimmer when you have icd?
Hi R3TR0, Thanks for watching! The med device companies put corded hair trimmers and shavers in the "6-inch (15cm)" category. That means you should, as best you can, keep the hair trimmer at least 6 inches from your device. But, remember, you need both close proximity and an extended time to cause a problem. So, if in using the trimmer you are inside that 6-inch window for a second or two, then its beyond that distance, that is okay even if you repeat that process multiple times. I hope that helps!
Thank you, Doug. I have a pacemaker for atrial fibrillation. Is it safe for me to use an electric far-infrared heatpad for backpain? Or a moist heat heatpad? The heat pad will be wrapped around the waist.
Hi Lipp Leon, thanks for watching. Generally items like heating pads and electric blankets are safe to use, if they are in good working order. Personally I wouldn't use it directly over the device just to be extra safe, but anywhere else would be fine.
@@DouglasRachac That's great. Thank you so much for responding to my query. 🙏
Hi there Doug, first of all ,thank you for doing these videos! I have a questions related to use of a ride on lawn mower. I have a John Deer. The battery is in the front so it is far away from the 6 inch marker. I have been told yes and I have been told no. What have you heard? I appreciate your time. Thanks!
Hi Paula, thanks for watching! A riding mower isn’t going to be a problem. The engine and battery is far enough away that you won’t have any problems. My favorite rule is the “don’t hug it” rule. As long as you aren’t laying across the engine, you’ll be okay. I hope that helps.
@@DouglasRachac Thank you so much for responding and for the support. Starting my engine!
What is your distance from welding lees with a arcwelder or a wire welder the safe distance I was told by my doctor that it wouldn't bother me at all and then I got a chicken in but how about let me know
Kool Breeze, thanks for watching. Here’s a link Medtronic provides regarding welding. Boston Scientific has a similar publication. www.medtronic.com/us-en/patients/electromagnetic-guide/frequently-asked-questions.html#welding
How do you keep the welding arc 2 feet away? You would not be able to see the weld anymore.
I’m blind in one eye so I hafta get everything set up in my favor. Having no depth perception forces me to oscillate my head left to right to be able to judge the profile of the molten puddle. Keeping my welding lenses clean & unfoggy is a nuisance as is figuring out which multiplier lens to use each day. I clip a bandanna to my hood to block any light/glare coming in from behind. I fudge a little on the 2’ distance because my amperages are under 130. I can weld left handed, but don’t do it as much cuz my ICD is under my left collar bone as were my PMs.
Thanks ! Would shielding the device with a few layers of aluminum foil and tape provide any protection from extended chain saw use?
Unfortunately extra shielding won’t add very much additional protection. The best protection comes with distance. 12 inches with a chainsaw is more than enough.
@@DouglasRachac Thanks !
Of course just like aluminum foil hat
Ugg, I'm industrial mechanic, I use cordless tools everyday.
I'm surrounded by 220v VFDs.
Pacemaker coming soon, there will be some changes I suppose.
Hi Shadow, thanks for watching. I don’t know much about VFDs (even after a quick Google search). My recommendation to you is to ask your doctor which company’s device they intend to use, then call that company’s Patient Services number. They should be able to give you some information about distance restrictions and if there are any tools you will need to avoid all together. But, since welding can be done safely with some precaution my guess is that they’ll be able to tell you how you can use those tools in a manner that won’t affect your device. Best of luck to you!
Awesome job Doug, i am also medtronic crtd carrier too😄Last month i had my operation. One question for you. i am not professional welder. I am using welding machine once a year for very few seconds may bey 3-4 second maximum. so what are the precautions i have to take for this job. any safety equipment? The medtronic magnets are for what reason? Should i buy and why?
Hi Louis, thanks for watching! For such a short period of time there really aren't too many precautions you would need to take. The welding itself isn't going to harm your device, but it could prevent your device from proprly reading your heart rhythm, as you saw in the video. Still, you should try to follow the precautions Medtronic lists on their website here: www.medtronic.com/us-en/patients/electromagnetic-guide/frequently-asked-questions.html As for a magnet, a magnet will cause your ICD to withhold shocks. This is not something you want normally. It's best to NOT place magnets directly over your device. So, having a magnet isn't really something most people have or want. It's up to you if you want to own one, but it would only ever be used in the rarest of situations.
@@DouglasRachac Thank you so much for all information you gave me and fast respond. I Appreciate that Take care and best regards❤❤
@@ndChronicles hi there! Thanks for watching. I haven’t seen any guidelines for a wood lathe, but when that happens I tend to compare the machine to others where we know the recommendations. First I’d say you don’t need to give up your lathe work. But, when looking at other equipment, A table saw, for example, has a 12 inch recommendation. A 120 amp bench grinder has a 24 inch recommendation. There’s very little you won’t be able to use at all. Your best source of info is the Patient Services group at your device manufacturer. Give them a call and they’ll be able to help you out.
@@DouglasRachac Sorry for the late response, Mr. Doug. Thank you so much for the encouragement!!!
Hi I have been with a device since 2013 in fact its almost time for a battery swap. And my one question I've asked every tech that checks my device is "what can I do to weld again?) Is there anything you can tell me besides " it's not recommended" ?
Great question! And thanks for watching! Medtronic and Boston Scientific have posted materials on their patient websites that explain what precautions would need to be taken in order for a person to weld. It does limit welding to less than 160 amps, but from what I've heard people with devices who use these precautions weld without a problem. You can find the information about 2/3rds of the way down the page on this link: www.medtronic.com/us-en/patients/electromagnetic-guide/frequently-asked-questions.html Boston Scientific has similar info on their page.
A good question that people may ask is could you still use and iron for clothing or a laptop which i my self used one recently which I think anyone with an ICD would be ok kinda like how u say distance with objects like how laptops got a batter yes. But other question no one has answered. Can some one still smoke weed even tho the grinders may have a magnet in them? I’m sure u could take the magnets out or get one with out magnets
Hi Keifer, Thanks for watching. An iron or a laptop are safe to use. Just keep the laptop 6 inches from your device for safety. And magnets are the same. 6 inches is more than enough distance to be safe.
@@DouglasRachac I’ve been using an iron no problem which is good but I keep my laptop more than 6inches
Douglas i can make tms (transcranial magnetic stimulation) is for depression treatment.thks.
I haven't heard about this therapy. Your best course of action is to contact the Patient Services group for your device manufacturer and ask them. They should be able to provide you an answer.
@@DouglasRachac Thanks you Douglas for answer my question.
Hi Doug!
AMAZING videos - thank you so much!
One quick question - are body fat scales OK if they're the foot-to-foot type? The current goes from one foot to another an the rest is estimated.
i.e. nothing handheld. I recently got a pacemaker.
Thanks!!!
Thanks for watching! I hope the video was helpful. The body fat scales are one of the few items the med-device companies put on their “do not use” list. This is because the scale sends the electrical impulse through the body to get the measurement of fat. The electricity apparently does flow through the whole body instead of just foot to foot. I have heard many people say they use them without a problem, and honestly haven’t heard anyone say a body fat scale messed with their device, but that is one item on the do not use list. I hope that helps.
@@DouglasRachac Thank you so much!!!!!!
My father is a railways employee.He works in open lines.He is an engineer.In open lines there is high tension wire for trains obviously.Can he get AICD safely if indicated??
Prasun, I know that people with implanted devices can safely travel in trains. If your father is in direct contact with power lines I recommend you contact the manufacturer of his device to ask more specific questions. I hope that information helps.
Induction stove ….I have one. I didn’t know that you have to be 2 feet away. I am the main cooker of the house so I cook a lot. So should I buy another stove?
It's really up to you. Personally I wouldn't. I would learn to cook with my implant side turned slighty away from the stove. And if I needed to lean in to smell or taste the food I wouldn't linger there for more than a few seconds. Remember, the interference needs time to confuse your device, but a few seconds of being close won't be an issue. Most companies recommend 2 feet of distance, and that is a very conservative distance. That means that at 2 feet there is virtually zero chance the stove will interfere with your device. There is one company (I forget which one) that recommends 1 foot of space.
I have a slow heart rate and have had a pacemaker for 2 years now. The doctor set my heart rate at 50-130. Can we exercise and play football? And is there a chance that the lead wire will come off or not? And when we exercise beyond the prescribed pulse at 130, will it have any effect on the machine or ourselves?
Good evening, and thanks for watching! It’s always best to talk to your doctor about playing any physical sports. The main concern is with your heart condition, not your device. It’s not likely you’ll do any damage to your device, even if you play a rough sport. After 2 years your lead is secured to your heart with scar tissue, and will take a much larger force to move. So, as long as your doctor says your heart can handle the exercise, you can play sports like football.
Your exercise won’t affect your device. If your heart can beat above 130 on its own that’s okay. The pacemaker won’t try to slow you down. But if your heart is depending on your pacemaker to beat, then 130 is the fastest it will go unless your doctor reprograms it. And 130 may not be high enough to give you the energy to play football at the level you want to play.
Also, if you’d like a little extra protection while you play a physical sport you can look into several shield-like products that are available on the internet. I use one called Vital Beat, and it works really well.
Great Video.
Is there a risk if a person (health personel or doctor) uses an electrocautery during a surgery? I mean holding it can cause any damage to the pacemaker programming When performing a surgery with electrocautery?
I know there are precautions to take When a parientes is undergoing a surgery, but there is a potential risk When the surgeon has a pacemaker?
Thanks for your help.
This is an excellent question, and it’s one I do not know the answer to. I believe holding a cautery pen while it’s being used is fine as long as the pen is greater than 12 inches from your device, but I’m going to see if I can find the answer to this question from one of my Engineer contacts. Stay tuned.
Thanks. I look forward for the information.
@@FRIDASOFIAOCHOAGARCIA-de2dv You sparked quite the conversation with this question. It’s not something that has been studied, but the general consensus is that the issue is with the proximity of the implanted device to the tip of the electrocautery pen while it’s being used. As long as a surgeon with a device keeps the pen tip at least 12 inches away from their device there shouldn’t be a problem. If, however, the surgeon feel nauseous or light headed they should stop for moment and see if the symptom subside. Great question! I hope this helps at least get closer to the answer you’re looking for.
Thank you so much for the information. I really appreciate it.
@@DouglasRachac When I had an operation to remove a kidney they knew in advance that they were going to use elecrocautery and therefore the cardio tech guy came and turned off the defibrilator (leaving the pacemaker on) in my device. It was all well planned and no big deal. It was turned on again after the operation and even before I came round from the anaesthetic.
What would happen to the device with an EMP event? Would it not short out and become useless? Or would it spike and shock the patient before it shuts off?
A device engineer once told me that our devices are shielded, and our bodies are an excellent vessel that protects our devices even further. And, if we were close enough to an EMP strong enough to damage our devices, then we would have a whole host of other problems to deal with far more concerning than if our implanted device was working or not. It’s just not a scenario I spend any time worrying about. I hope that’s helpful info.
What about iWatch 7 & iphone12?… getting Icd soon😳
Good question, and thanks for watching! The newest iPhones and Apple watches are safe to use. It’s recommended that you keep all electronic items at least 6 inches or 15cm away from your device. But a recent study showed that 1 inch is more than enough distance to be entirely safe. Personally, I have the iPhone 13 and the latest Apple Watch, and I have zero concerns using them. I hope that helps.
hello from portugal, I am 39 years old and a few days ago I had an episode of brachycardia and ended up in intensive care and was stabilized and they didn’t find any more problems, however they thought it best to install a medtronic azure S DR MRI surescan pacemaker. this was 2 weeks ago and now i'm faced with living with this ... what to do or use near me. I have some hobbies here in Portugal, sailing along the coast which makes you need to use vhf radio between 1w and 25w, the antenna is applied to the mast at 12 meters, and on days when there is no wind I have to use the diesel engine , which is in a navigation position on my feet. When I am at the docks, in the same engine compartment there are 2 batteries of 12v 100Amps each and the battery charger, which are under the boat access ladder, so I have whenever i go there, as i am diy, what care should i have to deal with the electrical part or the engine? I also used detectors with metal detectors and used a pinpointer, both use 9v batteries, can I continue? And I used to skate, I might be able to walk again (2/3 months) or because it is an impact sport I have to forget ... thank you very much Gonçalo Santos
Hello Goncalo, thank you for watching! I'm glad to see my videos have made it outside the US! There are a few precautions you may want to take with the items you mentioned above, but for most everything a distance of 1-2 feet (30-60cm) will be enough. I will direct you Medtronic's Electromagnetic Interference Compatibility guide for more information. You can find that here: www.medtronic.com/us-en/patients/electromagnetic-guide.html In the "Communications" section it lists marine radios using 15-30 watts as falling in the 2 foot/60cm range. Just stay 60cm from the antenna while its in use and you will be fine. Their recommendation for running engines is 1 foot/30cm. I hope that is helpful.
@@DouglasRachac thank you very mutch for your time,
all of this is new to me, and be able to find your videos to desmistify the interferences and all fears we have after a pacemaker instalation. You are the best, thank you for your time and i will keep whatch your vídeos.(Sorry for my rust english)
👌🏾
Do you have s-icd or what kind of pacemaker now? I have s-icd.
I currently have a traditional ICD, but mine is placed in my upper right chest. Normally they are placed on the left.
Hello so is it mostly electrical things? What about a battery operated impact or power drills?
Battery operated items can cause interference as well. The interference is generated by the motor running inside the item, whether that's plug in power or battery operated. Fortunately, 6 inches (15cm) of distance is from your device is more than enough for most battery operated items. Some require 12 inches, but that list of items is small. The power drill I use in this video is battery powered.
@@DouglasRachac Thank you
what about thwe smart meters?
I’m sorry, I’m not sure what exactly you are referring to. When you say “smart meters” I think of the wireless meter that’s attached to my water and electricity right where it comes into the house. Those are safe to be near, but I wouldn’t hug them for more that a few seconds. In general, with just a few exceptions, just about everything we come into contact with in our every days lives will be safe at 6 or 12 inches of distance from our device.
I'm curious about the welding thing.
I've read the info on Boston Scientific and it's clear.
But what I've not seen is any info on if, wearing a "faraday shield" "vest", perhaps grounded, would allow a person to weld with less worry?
Has anyone tried that or know if that would actually work?
I haven’t seen any studies on the topic, but I talked to a device Engineer once who said they would have little to no effect.
@@DouglasRachac Ok, thanks.
Due to some incredible good luck, long story short, things have changed. apparently, VTs can just go away!
So there's no more talk from the cardiologist about a pacemaker or ICD.
YAYYY!
My electric blanket and heating pad should be ok, Right?
Hi Kimberly, both items are listed as safe to use by the medical device companies. 👍👍
I just had my 2nd open heart surgery and due to the damage from both surgeries my heart sustained they had to put a pacemaker in me this time, my question is; do you have any recommendations on how can I use my commercial grade backpack blower? That's my baby and I'm going to be lost without her 🙃 thanks
Hi C D, thanks for watching. You've picked one of the few items that are difficult to gauge. The current recommendations from the med-tech companies is to keep your device at least 12 inches away from small engines. This is difficult to do when the engine itself is on your back. I imagine if you were to measure it you'd have the distance through your body, and the distance between the back of the backpack to the attached motor you'd have at least 9 inches of distance between your device and the motor. The 12 inch recommendation is conservative, so at 12 inches there is virtually no chance of interference. That doesn't mean at 9 inches you WILL have interference, it is just more likely than at 12 inches.
I have a gas powered edger that hangs on my right side. I estimate the engine is right around 12 inches from my ICD, and I still use that. It will be a judgment call for you. One thing you can do to test is wear a heart rate monitor and watch your heart rate while you work. If you notice its erratic vs steady that's probably because of the interference from the blower. Good luck to you!
@@DouglasRachac thank you so much for taking the time to reply. I truly appreciate your time and info. My wife is a nurse so I think I'll try it one day when she's off so she can observe me while I try. Best wishes to you and thank you again.
I would like to know that question
Hello. I used a rechargeable shaving machine and I accidentally shaved my way over my pacemaker, I felt an electric wave through my chest and my heart rate went a bit high for a short while, should I be worried?
Hey Pepsi-Cola Man (love your soft drinks!) There's no worry with using your electric shaver. I'm not sure what the "electric wave" was that you felt. Honestly it could have been a bit of anxiety, but an electric shaver won't cause problems with your device. Try to keep it at least 6 inches (15cm) away from your device. Otherwise, you won't affect your device with normal use. I have one myself and don't even think about it while using it. I hope that helps.
@@DouglasRachac Man you’re the best. Thank you for replying and have a good day!
but hf can cause damage tho
what about electrical hair trimmer ??can we use it?
Hi Rem, Thanks for watching. An electric hair trimmer should be fine. Just to be safe keep it at least 6 inches from your device. If that can't be done, only use it for 3-4 second bursts when it's within 6 inches.
@@DouglasRachac thank you...my husband had ppm placed on the 27/3/21 ..your video is very useful..he is still recovering,
hi sir i hv installed Medtronic pacemaker dt 6 may 2021 i was a case with bradycardia below 45 bpm . i am little uncomfortable with the device. somehow feels it was too early to implant without second opinion. can i remove it? what are the pros and cons. please reply
Good morning! This is a conversation that you would need to have with your doctor. A slow heart rate can be harmful, so you would want to make sure you would be able to manage your heart rate without a pacemaker before deciding to remove it. Anxiety over having an implanted device is very common. I recommend talking with your doctor, then giving yourself a little time to get used to the device before making a decision. Best of luck!
I have had a device for 15/years I’m on my third device its very safe and can safe your life, if your uncomfortable with your device & doctor seek out an electrophysiology Doctor this is a highly trained Cardiologist who specializes in device’s pacemaker defibrillator etc, having your device removed is in my opinion not a good idea until you are fully diagnosed by a electrophysiology keep in mind this is a specifically trained doctor and the guys are very busy so be patient and find one your comfortable with good luck!
Be thank ful for the pacemaker I have one 3 years. Your heart rate can g0 to 40 beats or 30 beats
If i your. Heart. Had stopped you only have seven minutes to get help so be happy for you pacemaker good luck to you. Bless you. Thank ur doctor. For saving your life. Take care
Just curios. How long was he welding before the zapper.
Hi James, there was another page to that EKG readout, so it was at least 20-30 seconds, if not more.
@@DouglasRachacgotcha. I was hoping for longer. I'm a welder and the doctors are trying to get me to get a ICD. Not sure what I'm going to do. I mean I choose to live. But this is a family business/small shop. If I can't weld. Multiple people will be out of work.
@@jamesvanhoose3132 The way I understand it the issue was that this person was welding continuously for such a long time. The device wasn’t able to see his natural heart rate, and so it shocked out of caution. If your welds are shorter with 3-4 second breaks in between your device would be able to see your normal heart rate and refrain from shocking. You can learn more on the various company websites. You can find Medtronic’s welding information here: www.medtronic.com/us-en/patients/electromagnetic-guide/frequently-asked-questions.html Your best bet is to contact the Patient Services group of the medical device manufacture that makes the device your doctor wants to use. Talk to the patient services rep, or ask to speak to a Technical Services rep and ask if you are able to weld safely with your future device and current shop set-up.
@@jamesvanhoose3132 if you get a Medtronic, should be no problem! I am on my second one and have a boat and powersport shop. I work around running motors, have been shocked by ignition coils, etc. and have had no problems with the ICD. We have a fab area in the shop and I MIG and TIG often. I pay attention to where the leads are running. Have them come into your hand from that side, without them running across your chest/in front of you. I have had no issue, so far. Stay 2 ft away from welding machine...(Don't have a cup of coffee while using it for a back rest if it is welding! ) I have had my ICD since 2013 and just got a new one in March 2021. Battery was used up.
@@marshred thanks for the Intel. I'm ready to get one. At least I was. I decided to pull the trigger. But the doctor is going to try Tikosyn first. Apparently I got a little healthier and now I'm a candidate for that now. If that fails I'm find the idc. Thanks again for the information.
I sometimes carry a Tazer for protection i have not had an instance to use it, would it be safe to use ? And if by chance you were zapped by one what would/could happen?
Hi Michael, it’s totally safe for use to use a tazer on someone else (well….safe for you, anyway). And, believe it or not, our devices are designed to allow for the free flow of external electrical energy through them without being harmed. You can be tazed, or shocked with an AED and your device will not be harmed. There is a small possibility that the therapy settings could be reset with a tazer or AED shock, so if you are hit with something that powerful it would be a good idea to have your device checked, just to be safe. I hope that helps.
I was told no grinders no drills.
Yeah, sadly there is some outdated advice out there. The best source of information in this case is actually the medical device companies. They are the ones who design, build and test these devices, so they would have the most accurate info. You can check out their recommendations by googling the name of the device manufacturer and the words “Electromagnetic Compatibility Guide”. There you’ll find all of the most up-to-date recommendations.
What about a cell phone 📱. Or a microwave
Hi Tracey, thanks for watching! A microwave is totally safe, just don't hug it while it's running. Otherwise, you can be standing right next to it while its on and you won't have any problems. Cell phones are also very safe. The med device companies recommend a 6 inch distance between your cell phone and your device. Even so, there are only a handful of reports out there of cell phones and devices interacting with each other in any way. You'll run into more issues if your cell phone case has a magnet built into it, and even that is not a major issue.
Can I run a gas powerd lawn mower
Absolutely! The med device companies recommend that you keep your implanted device at least 12 inches (30cm) away from the running engine, so as long as you’re not laying across the lawn mower while it’s running you’ll be safe. Sorry if you were going to use a different answer to get you out of that chore. 😁
What about an electric toothbrush?
Hi Cheryl, thanks for watching. An electric toothbrush doesn't emit enough EMI to be a concern during normal use. I wouldn't turn it on and stuff in your shirt next to your device, but your teeth wouldn't get very clean that way anyway. :-) During normal use an electric toothbrush is safe to use. I use one every morning and night.
What about electrical work
No worries. Our devices are designed to allow for outside electrical impulses to pass through them without harming the device. If you get zapped your device will be okay. I made a video about it on TikTok, if you’re a user: www.tiktok.com/t/ZPRw9kdxs/
is there no danger ,to use an electric powered car?
Hi Willy, thanks for watching. There is definitely not worries over driving or riding in an electric car. This study in particular showed there are no concerns: www.escardio.org/The-ESC/Press-Office/Press-releases/are-high-power-electric-vehicle-chargers-safe-for-patients-with-cardiac-devices I hope this info helps!