I’ve had mine 12 years. I had only had it about three weeks when I got shocked. I was asleep. If I hadn’t had the ICD my wife would’ve found me dead next to her. No issues since. I just had a change out on 7/9/24. I’m very glad I have one.
@@2050ankrush I’m 74 and I do what ever I want and have the energy to do. I do work out because I don’t have time. I do a lot of tractor work. I’m about the start cutting and splitting fire wood for this winter, I enjoy a good fire. I’m an electrician by trade and still do a bit of work when I’m called. I weld, use all my electric tools, chain saw and ride a motorcycle. What else can I tell you.
I realize this is an older video but I wanted to thank you for sharing this. I'm 54 and about to go from a pacemaker to an ICD. It has me terrified but your humor really helps. Hope you're still alive and kicking.
@@RVBob good to hear. Yesterday my mom had a widow maker heart attack.,put 2 stents in, Thier sending her home with a SafeVest. I'm hoping she can say the same as you in the future.
As others have said - Thanks for this. I got mine at 29 - I am 33 now. No shock yet. I always wondered what it would be like. Thanks for helping us understand! I hope you are well!
@@chadhollingsworth7535 I had my annual check up last week. I am about two years out from getting my device replaced. According to the doctor- docs here (Canada) do much cleaner stitching than the US? (He was trained in the US and brand new.)
I'm so glad that you haven't! In October, I got my first shocks - 5 in a row so I had a scary ambulance ride. I had mine 3 years before those 5 shocks. Mine was more like gunshots than kicks to the chest. Superventricular tachycardia due to chf. I feel worse than ever now. Think my heart is paying for those shocks so hoping I bounce back. Keep up on your nutrients!! I was deadly low on potassium and magnesium and my sodium was dropping!
Hi, I’ve had my ICD for 5 1/5 years nine times , was sleeping the first two times ,was asleep in 2018 . Then in 2021 in January I got a new generator ( battery ) jumping ahead my ICD has went three times since Oct 23rd , two shocks . This thing two more times four more times in December. Then in November I got shock just one time in the garage . So that’s seven times , two days I was in hospital two different times . Then Dece 16th it went off again two times with in 15 seconds apart , called the squad to pick me up . Took me to a community hospital, there an hour , the squad took me by the same squad to a larger hospital in Sarasota,fl. I was there five days after that , they started me on I’ve different meds , and are talking about a device up grade to a three wire device . Had a heart attack in 05-06 that damaged the bottom part of my heart so in 2015 in May I went into a weird rhythm, got to the hospital where they got two IV started , then I coded , they hit me three times with the paddles, then put me on a helicopter to Sarasota,fl . Did a heart cath then implanted the device . It’s scary as hell and if awake it hurts like hell but it saved my life . So don’t be afraid this thing has saved my life 10 times. I’ll take the shock to keep on living , after 7 shocks it’s worth the risk to stay alive. After the last two I’m starting to get kinda getting use to it and it’s not bad , the first time was scary the first , but I’m still alive. Good luck to anyone that reads , just know that if you get shocked it just saved you . 😷😬😬
I just had my first Icd installed, im 31years old. Installed on December 18th 2018. I just had my first shock today at 1130 am. In the shower. I was standing there washing my face. And then POW! Right in the chest! Like someone just punched me right in the center of my chest.. i have not received my bed side receiver yet. So i give the dr a call. And they said. If you receive another shock within 24 hours go to the ER. I Just wanted to share my story of my 1st shock. And thank you for sharing yours.. its sure one way to wake up in the morning besides a hot shower!. Damn!
Chris, suppose it's better to have had the experience right away rather than going through life always wondering "how bad if and when" I'm sure your doc is gonna want to pull the data off the device and see what caused the shock. wonder if you felt ok just before getting shocked? good luck and keep me posted.
@@uncledan8320 The crazy part is I had no prior symptoms right before the shock that day. One thing I did have the previous day was some palipations. I wonder if there was a connection. Heres a little story, I was diagnosed with heart disease on Nov 18th 2018, stayed in the hospital for 4 weeks. And needed the defribulator for Ventricular tachycardia. My appointment is in two weeks to see the Electrophysiologists.
Hey, I Finnaly got to see the device doctor. They did the wireless interrogation of my ICD. So they determine I did not go into a bad arythmia. I got what was called a inappropriate shock. The ICD detected what it thought was v-tach, But my heart was fine. So they readjusted my icd to read my heart on a differnt lead. I also had two other untreated episodes, I determined the episodes were from me strenuously using my arm muscles, and pectoral muscles. Pushing a bed one day, and doing laundry one other day. These were. Probably the most strenuous things I have got into after leaving the hospital.. just a update. Thanks dan for sharing. Im glad i Found someone who can relate.
@@chrisr6459 I guess in a way it's a "win-win" for you. I know the shock sucks but after you get one there is a sense of relief that you know what it's like. the good part for you is it really wasn't your heart misbehaving. hopefully the doc gets all your settings dialed in correctly so you dont receive anymore "inappropriate therapy" keep me posted!👍
30 years old, third pacemaker, I think I just experienced my first shock. I almost called 911, my girlfriend is coming over right now as I’m writing this. It felt like lightning, I’m short of breath and I might go to the emergency room.
Dan, Don here. I REALLY appreciate the honest and not sugarcoated experience video. This was MUCH better than any hospital video. I also noticed you said "Rockford" I am from Machesney Park. Who would have thought. Thanks again, Buddy!
Top man for sharing Dan 👌🏻😂 I’ve had my device 10 years now and have had 7 shocks - never easy especially when you know it’s coming. I don’t get faint and I can feel the tachycardia so I just hang on to whatever’s nearest and wait for the bang 🤣
I was thrown across the room. I had 5 in a row for my first. I'm still completely freaked out actually. Superventricular tachycardia is NO fun. The amiodarone is much worse in a way.
They are very dangerous devices in that the ICD EMF shielding is insufficient to protect the device from EMF manipulation... above 60Hz EMF. I found this out the hard way when the ICD produced extreme tachycardia which was life-threatening . I have started procedures to get it turned off.
Dan, glad you're OK.. Not sure what your normal blood pressure but not all that surprised this happened on the toilet. This is a fairly intensive process on the body, also when you squat, go the bathroom (2) or even very deep breath it puts pressure on the vagus nerve. Vagus nerve is part of the parasympathetic nervous system so it will slow your heart, sometimes dramatically and that apparently triggered the device or triggered the problem that triggered the ICD.. - Definitely make sure your blood pressure stays in the normal range, you should check it daily. Helps to spot problems before they happen, but also that your medication is working right and not too little/much. - Be extra careful when going in to the shower or bath tub, that temperature shock can dramatically drop blood pressure, it's fairly common for people to get stroke from this. I once got a tachyarrhythmia from going in the shower. - also be careful getting up too fast, especially after sitting awhile.
I've had mine 5 years, never a problem. Currently in hospital after receiving 3 shocks in 6hours. Plus the device alarming about 6 -8 times between. Made for a very nervous evening I can tell you. Turns out it wasnt even my heart... instead I have a fractured lead that need replacing. Thanks for sharing your experience.
@ChristyHyre Always look on the bright side. At least it's the device at fault and not his heart. I think my initial surgery was just over 4 hrs as I was born with TGA so routing the wires is abit more complicated. I'll be sending your husband positive thoughts..
Every time I get shocked my first thought is well shit I can’t drive for six months. Second thought is whoa. It saved my life again and I’m so thankful for it.
Thanks for posting this. I got my ICD six weeks ago (today I can raise my arm past my shoulder!). I do have phrenic nerve irritation so I get a sort of “tick” from time to time, but no shock. I’ve heard it’s like a mule kick in the chest when it comes. I still get lightheaded too...
I'm glad I found this channel/video. I had an ICD implanted 3 weeks ago for my medical condition know as Brugada Syndrome. I haven't experienced a defibrillation shock but I have noticed pacing shocks constantly. My anxiety is through the roof and I can hardly sleep at night because I constantly feel the pacing therapies of my ICD. This may sound weird but I can feel it more when I'm laying on my left side or on my back. Thanks for sharing your video.
I was recently diagnosed with the same thing and its been really scary for me. How are you feeling bro? Does the ICD bother you? Are you able to do regular activities again? Has it shocked you?
@@OperationTubeYou The issue was the device voltage setting, my EP reprogrammed it to a lower voltage and that resolved my issue. Thanks for your replay!
@@jonathongrinols283 Physically, I feel great. Yes and I back to my normal activities (hiking, golfing, and running). Remember this, you've always had the gene that can trigger a BrS attack prior to being diagnosed. Unless your doctor tell you otherwise, then resume your life as normal. Regarding the ICD, no it doesn't bother me. Took awhile to get use to having the implant and to get over the fear of being shocked. The ICD is a good thing, like a guarden angel! Think of it like this, when your driving your car do you constantly worry about dying from a wreck? There are safty devices to keep you safe (airbags, seatbelts, etc), think of your ICD as a seatbelt or an airbag. Its there to keep you safe!
@@CantGetRight911 Thank you so much for sharing your story and responding to me. I sent you a Facebook message and would love to discuss it more. Thank you.
Just had an ICD installed on 03/11/2022. On 03/02/2022 I suffered a major heart attack at home. 911 was called and EMS arrived just in the nick of time to save me. I was faded out to black with a pulse oxygen of just 3 and in full fib. Next I knew I was looking up at EMS with a Oxygen bag on feeling confused and scared at the same time, like someone woke me from a sleep and I was ready to fight for my life. I arrived at the hospital where I was put in the ICU unit to be monitored diligently 24/7. On 03/04/2022 I went into full arrest two more times. Once while trying to have breakfast around 8:00. The strange thing was there was NO PAIN involved at all, It was just fade to black like going to sleep and chest compression's and the shock following, bringing me back again. This time I could feel my ribs chest and back hurting from CPR. The next attack came around 4:00 the same day. This time after two shocks I felt something. The second shock was literally being slammed in the chest with a sledge hammer. I remember opening my eyes and getting out the words What The Fuck as I came to. From the experience I know what it's going to feel like when and if another event happens to me. The good thing is, it happens so fast and doesn't last for more than a second with no lasting effect. I also have a transmitter to relay information to the hospital so they know what's going on. Uncle Dan, you, I, and scores of others know what it's like to be at deaths door with one hand on the knob. Technically we were Dead and granted a second or third chance to live. I now have three dates to celebrate each year, My natural birth date 08/22/63, my re birth dates 03/02/22, 03/04/22.
Two weeks ago, I got shocked by my defibrillator several times in a row while I was at my job at Costco. I was on my break at the time and was standing at the urinal in the mens room when the first when hit. I did not have a cardiac event. The wires were misfiring. I'm sure I could have tolerated one shock.....but several in a row! Ended up EMT transport to ER and when they did a reading of my device, found out that I had actually been shocked 16 times!! Some of the shocks were back to back therefore the reason I felt several.
I just had icd shock in july .Beginning of 2019 I 2 also had 2 heavy heart attacks which I really didnt notice.I am just able to remember half way through hospital inside ambu .then I learned inside ambu they have given 370 and in hospital 2 times 300. I am remembering last 300 painfull but fantastic.I am still afraid of having that shock during the day .
I had mine place at the beginning of July due to cardiac arrest and not even few days of discharge, it shocked me. Didn't hurt me, just caused more anxiety but slowly recovering.
I was shocked by the paramedics four weeks ago. It’s a good wack in the chest. My heart was beating 298 bpm. I had heart attack four months earlier. Got ICD implant April 15 and the drugs make me light headed also. Thank you for sharing and god bless you.🙏
U had a heart attack and they didn't put in a defibrillator..wow ..also above 180 bpm is dangerous most defibs are set to go off once u go over 180 170 you're lucky bro..
@@redbarline8848 You don't get a defibrillator after a heart attack....and you do not defibrillate a heartbeat. You only defibrillate "ventricular fibrillation". A fast heart beat would be Atrial Fib with a rapid ventricular response, sinus tachycardia (SVT), or Ventricular Tachycardia. Those "could" be cardioverted, not defibrillated, depending on patients symptoms and vital signs.
Thanks for sharing man this was the best explanation of the shock I could find on here well from a real and personal experience. I'm getting one here in a few weeks and was more concerned with the shock than about the procedure lol
I've had mine for about 8-9 yrs been shocked about 8 times in last year they finally decided to put a new one in and reprogram it hopefully I'm good to go👍
Thanks for kind of laughing about it; you definitely make it more personable and down to earth. You seem like a fun guy to have a beer with and trade stories. Just got mine installed and been reading all the hype. Good luck to you
Looking into having defib/pacemaker installed. I am a bit scared about all of it. Thank you for helping me to better know what to expect. Blessings to you!
Cardiologist team is turning up the heat on me to get the ICD done. I had a afib episode while driving down the road in my big truck . It was previously undiagnosed, so everyone was surprised. Fortunately a Missouri state Trooper just happened be there when I went off road. I regained consciousness just as they're wheeling me into ER . After multiple tests it was determined that I had 90% blockages in 2 main arteries around the heart. I also have intermittent AFIB which seems to be controlled by medication . Finally, I seem to have a dead spot in my heart that is believed to be the result of a previously undiagnosed heart attack. No chest pain whatsoever. Doc wants the ICD as a backup if it was to happen again. Open heart surgery and stents were ruled out as a high risk procedure. Medication is kicking my butt , making me unstable on my feet. I really suck as a patient in the hospital, as was determined by my last stay when they did a heart cath on me.
Does the remote monitoring cost anything...? I just received an ICD last week...I got two shocks at the hospital...the 1st I was awake and felt it all under a fentanyl cloud from the hospital and the second time they put me to sleep before hitting me with it...
Hi, my name's Gail, and I live in U.K. I have an ICD, due to heart attack. I had 3 stents fitted,on lots of meds. Have you ever experienced a sorta, tiny pulse just below your neck? I do, and it scares me. I've seen Dr, and he says nothing to worry about, but it still feels weird, like a little drummer, banging on just above my sternum, around to my left hand side. Thanks! 😀
Gail, I've never experienced what you have described. Sometimes when laying down trying to fall asleep I feel and kind of hear my pulse on one side if my neck ( I think the left side). I remember my Dr saying the artery in my neck makes jog or turn that may account for what I'm feeling. Sorry I cant be more help. Good Luck and let me know if you ever figure out what it is. Try not to let it stress you out.
I have my second follow up tomorrow since I had my implant this past May. About three weeks ago I woke up about 2 in the morning with a terrible pain right where my heart is. It subsided after a minute or two. It didn't feel like a shock, just hurt like hell.
hey uncle dan im 27 years old, VSD REPAIR open heart surgery at age 2 now years later ventricular tac at age 27 got my first shock a week after implant during super bowl sunday knocked the hell out of me im having a surgery soon if all goes well i can get this thing out of me but yeah.....shew that shock is no joke...but it saves your life. i do miss drinking beer im afraid to now i guess thats kinda a good thing and i stopped dipping after 15 years.
Thanks for sharing. Similar to you I was sitting and having a video conversation when suddenly I started to pass away. I managed to take one deeper breath, say a name of my wife and that was it. I felt like some heavy package would have felt on the back of my head, I opened my eyes, slowly realized what happened and ... suprisingly I was still on the video conversation. My mum asked why have you lowered your head for a moment? So that was it just 3 - 4 seconds. No big pain at all and back to life.
I am about to get icd implant next week I am 19 years old with heart failure been wearing a lifevest for the past eight months and I am honestly kind of terrified if there’s anything that you could tell me that might help me in the situation please get back to me let me know please
someone ever sneak up on you and it scare the crap out you? well add a shock component and a "Holy crap+i'm still alive+what do i do now" to it and you got it.
Hi mate, don't worry about it to much I got mine back in uk 2012, had my 1st shock 2022 and then 3 within 2 hours last week, it's nothing like a kick from a Horse. it's half a second light punch to the chest and touching a live plug at the same time is the best I can describe. I was the same as your self thinking about it and the operation, you will not feel a thing, so don't lose to much sleep it's a Doddle, Good luck.
@@tomhill3439 really really appreciate the reply buddy as not many do as only want the viewers really. But yes had the SICD and bluetooth wireless pacemaker too .I'm on a research programme new concept ???..but healing good ..the shocks are in my head all the time thinking when is going to happen.but I too hope you are doing well and minimal shocks as your reply has touched me and want to offer and hope you the very best of health for as long as possible.kind regards nel uk male 49y
@@nelm8257 Hi mate, Hope you're in good health, good to know you have the S-ICD and malfunctions from leads is zero with that device, lucky sod, I had another shock on Monday so I'm having a V T ablation next couple of weeks, can't wait, all the best.
I had my first one implanted back in 2013 at 31 and now have my second one implanted.the shocks for me are strong.like an aggressive kick to the abdomen
I m really glad u survived. I haven’t had one minute of peace since my Defrillbulator malfunctioned. I had 51 shocks in less than 3 hrs because of a malfunctioning device. It is devastating. There is so much more to this and I feel ignored and unimportant with no answers.,how can those that work for St. jude tell me they don’t what will happen now that i have two.
A wire came loose after 7 years and that damn deffibulator started shocking me until the battery died. Over 20 shocks, 8 at my house 4 in ambulance and 6 more in er. I almost wouldn't let them put me another one.
Don't worry about it to much the procedure it self is fine and very quick and not sure how they do it in other countries I was back home the following day. but I did lose a lot of confidence at first but over time you do get it back again. Hope it all goes well for you good luck 🤞
@@Garymayes24 are you from UK 🇬🇧 or 🇺🇸 USA I was 39 when I had mine and struggled to find any help from anyone similar age it all seemed to be older people.. Let me know how your getting on if you want to talk more find me in Facebook Ian Horsfall same picture as my youtube one
@@ianbakedbean4079 im from the UK Ian. I'm 56 now. Wow, you had yours at 39!!! Got mine coming up soon, everyone tells me it's kinda painless and over quickly but I'm still stressed a little bit. Thanks again buddy. I'll let you know how it goes. Thanks for your thoughts.
@@Garymayes24 it is still a stressful time no Dr or nurse could of put my mind at ease it's just the unknown I watched the operation being done on youtube it made feel more at ease but that's because I like to know exactly what they will do its not for everyone.. I was waiting for an ambulance to come for somone else as the ambulance pulled up my heart just stopped luckily they turned up when they did.. My device has saved my life on a few occasions since then for that I'm grateful I'm due to have a new one anytime now as my battery is going flat lol all the best
Thanks Dan, I will be getting a Pacemaker in the next few weeks. It is a leadless, can not find any people who have, only company propaganda, hope you are well.
I have metronic with my icd Had plenty of shocks Never heard from them 5 big ones in a row It happened on Sunday I knew no body Drs would be there I thought I saw a recall on St Jude's Anyway trying to get an ablation scheduled but there are 3 or 4 Drs in a hospital that serves 130 counties I have had it for four years and I believe some of these shocks are due to the medication combos they put you on It's scary
I got 55.shocks on less than 3 hrs. I am not glad at all and I am scared to death because now I have two f them in me because they could not take the other one out. They did not give me any device on my nightstand and I had no idea after 23 years that it could malfunction. Not happy and I am petrified.
wow sounds like it zaps you good when it happens. im going in 7days from now to get a defib put in. im scared shitless. I don't like the idea that I can't drive for a month. won't be able too work at all. can't afford that. im 71 years old. bill
Bill, it's really not that bad. Try not to stress over it. odds are you'll never get a shock and if you do it probably saved your life. not driving for a month sucks. Dont worry, the procedure to put it in is a piece of cake. I came home the same day. let me know how you do, I'll be wondering. good luck, but you'll be fine. Dan
OMG, I’m getting one on the 20th of June and I’m also scared shitless. I had open heart surgery last year to replace my mitral valve and I was less scared of that even though the recovery was absolutely brutal (and I knew it was going to be a difficult recovery). I’m also going to have an ablation a month after the ICD implantation and it scares me to know I’ll be totally depend on the ICD’s pacemaker function. It sucks to have heart problems.
@@rf101259 I totally agree that it does suck to have heart problems. part of mine was self inflicted but some bad genetics in play as well. wish I would have taken better care of myself when I was young. 62 years old now and hope to string a few years of retirement together while I still feel ok. try not to be scared and try to have faith in your doctors. please keep me posted on your progress. Good Luck but you'll be fine.
@@rf101259 I think your outcome will have you around for quite a bit longer than a year. it amazes me the technology they have now. I too sometimes struggle with the thought of my own mortality but I think at some point everyone does. just be glad we're living in a time where they have these devices to help us live a more normal life. a couple decades ago we might not have been so lucky. stay strong!
Just had mine put in at 38 went to work monday drs on tues coukdnt breath good and to the er congestive hf year later now just got icd 4 weeks ago no shock yet kinda scared lol being 38 on ssdi kinda sux but better then being dead ive come to realize and appreciate! Ao good luck ull be ok !
I can totally relate. That medicine is no joke. Sounds like yours was not so bad. Mine made me feel so bad. I was about to give up on it. I had a cardiac ablation to deal it’s my arrhythmia. However it did not work as well as expected and now I must get a defibrillator.. thanks for,sharing your story.
Uncle Dan not really worried about the procedure more about being painfully shocked. Did it improve your heart function? Do you feel better than before. I hope so.
Julie C don't worry about getting shocked, if it happens it probably will have saved your life. The devices today are very sophisticated and rarely deliver a shock unnecessarily. My heart is slowly getting stronger but not due to the device. I feel better knowing I have a built in EMT crew to respond instantly if needed. Think of it those terms and try not to be afraid of getting a shock, odds are you never will. Good luck.
I would like to talk to you about the ICD because I have one too and I don't know who I can talk to about it. Please let me know the proper ways I can reach out.
I remember my first shock, it was during the implant. Apparently I wasn't under enough and experienced it. I'm actually thankful for that, I'll know what to expect if it has to occur. So far, the Pacemaker has been doing a great job. My thoughts are powerful that even those of us with identified Cardiac problems, Having a Defib/Pacemaker is a great thing. I know too many that would be here today if they were equally equipped. Great video, thanks for sharing.
Pat, I remember when they knocked me out for the test during the implant procedure. they must have used enough knock out juice because I didn't feel a thing. I just remember them telling me to count backwards and then it was lights out. my mom died at age 58 from cardiac arrest, this was back in 1988. not sure they had implantable defibs back then but I often wondered if one would have saved her. thanks for watching!
Syncope. Blood pressure drops. Tonight my icd gets interrogated to find out if it shocked me or I had a seizure. I clamped down so hard on my tongue I think my clitoris dropped.
I had mine 3 months when I apparently went in to AFIB with RVR causing my device to fire 8 times. 3 months later I was in AFIB RVR again and took 6 more shocks. Neither incident was considered life threatening but the device will fire if your HR exceeds the threshold set by your Doctor. They told me it would not fire until you are passed out. While that may be true in a real life threatening heart emergency, it is not true in other circumstances. I agree with others it is not like getting kicked by a horse. I am betting a horse kick is far far worse. It is more akin to someone ambushing you with a pretty hard slap on the back, while sticking your finger in a light socket, while at the same time in your mind you see a flash that is not there but feels very real. The first time mine went off I was standing, scanning a boarding pass at an airport. I thought a bomb went off. After realizing it is the ICD the second one hit, then I thought the battery was exploding...it wasn't. The biggest "shocking" and frightening factor, at least when it happens while conscious, is that is without warning and instantaneous...completely blindsiding. It is over in a millisecond. By the time you feel it and start to utter an F-Bomb it is over before you get to -ucckkkk...but it still comes out. 🙂 ADVICE IF IT GOES OFF WHILE CONSCIOUS: Acknowledge it is happening. You will be able to function between shocks so control the fear of the unknown. Remain calm and if possible, lie down, control your breathing to bring your heart rate down. Thankfully I can laugh about the incidents and that I was "riding the lightening" but it is still traumatic and can cause some PTSD. In the weeks following my second incident I was startled awake a few times thinking my device fired. It did not.
I had mine first time yesterday. ICD goes off 7 times. So far the worst experience in my life. I'm in the hospital since yesterday and I hope it will not happen again..
I go this Wed. For my icd I. 44 and I've was diagnosed with congestive heart failure 💔 and I'm fuk I ng scared of dying before my son even graduate high school he's 8 now.
Uncle Dan thank you so much for sharing your experience with us. I recently had a aicd implanted, (Feb 13), and kind of still in denial. It's been just about a month ago and I haven't looked at my chest yet. I went to the emergency room for the flu and left 6 days later with a implant. At first I was kind of mad, but after researching my condition,.plus I died at the hospital, I've accepted it was definitely the right thing. Thanks for your videos, I look forward to seeing more of them in the future.😀
supersurf11, glad you're ok and glad you're on the mend. living with an icd is not so bad. like having built in EMT's. I've only had the one shock but have had several episodes where the device paced me out of v-tach. actually had one last Tuesday. hospital called to tell me my remote monitor phoned in. wonder what make device you have. let me know and keep me posted on your progress. glad the videos helped you cope.
@uncledan8320 I hope you're well... I'd like to know how you keeping all these years later after your icd implant. Have gotten shocked again after the first shock? Also I would like to know what tour devuce name and make is... my brother(19) has a biotronik icd.
I never been shocked like u have but I v fibed which is why I got a icd I took to much potassium as the systems r alike to little or to much but I didn't know that that's where I got my fist shock I was coded so I didn't feel it then my blood pressure tanked from the heart meds they have me on as I didn't have high blood pressure to begin with anyways the hospital gave me something and I coded my 2nd shock I didn't feel a thing my cell phone which I was on when it happened was past my shoes on the bed so the shock my have tossed it. I also have a LVAD left ventricular assisting device that pumps my heart till transplant well it malfunctioned so life flight to the hospital in salt lake I live in montana. In the surgery to replace the pump open heart should be about 15 hrs it was day two still opened up I am under tube in thought I was bleeding out 15 blood transfusions plus 3 plasma and 3 platelets I started getting shocked 23 times I woke up each time clinging to the bed rails begging them to let me die as I couldn't take the pain they had to remove it as the tool to shut it off wasn't working. I finally felt it and my God it hurt. I should say for two months my icd was beeping quite beeps I told the hospital about it they said it was the battery and nothing to worry about all I know is I'm glad I was in the hospital cuz I replaced the plumbing in a place I thought I was going to be able to buy and I was fixing the roof the day b4 they life flighted me and I wouldn't be here if it went off in either of those situations. It saved my life a few times wven know I was in the hospital each time it went off but the thought of 23 shocks if I wasn't would have killed me as there wasn't time to call for help in between shocks and the pain I hurt more from my icd then them ripping open my chest after words in my 2nd open heart surgery. Thanks for sharing sorry wrote u a book but my story is one to know about with life and a icd
Im 29 and i have one for 3 month's now and this has litterly made me homeless i cant work i cant get disability and im constantly been in and oit of the hospital few times a week if lucky. And im living in fear ever since.
@Joseph Mason im just glad my cousin got me a motel room for couple nights. Finally shower3d n changed clothes n all ina while. Im keeping fighting to get out of this mess and back into society
@Joseph Mason well I use to be an IV meth user. And thats spped up my heart problems. But this been ststying year prior when I became severely anemic from bleed out from an ucler caused by a biopsy.
I had it done. No problems and worried for nothing. Not that its isnt an intricate and. Serious proceedure. But its a painless and fast procedure you will be very comfortable and safe.
@@RVBob Thanks for asking Im doing well. Other that the size of the device i would never lnow it was there. Its working every second of every day. I feel fine. I need to get into an exercise rountine. And after awhile i should be in alot better condition. Afain thx for asking.
@@Thatsmisteroldguytou I'm good and not good at the same time. I had a massive heart attack Feb 10th of 2018. Survived that with a lot of damage. Dec 4th (1yr anniversary tomorrow) I went into V-Tac and nearly died. Paramedic hit me with the AED paddles twice (while I was still concious) and I ended up getting a pacemaker on the 6th. Then in April of this year I went into V-Tac again so they changed my Pacemaker for an ICD. That ended my career, I was an OTR truck driver.
@uncle Dan once you got shocked did it immediately wake you or did it take a minuet? also do you know what a person looks like when they get shocked with this thing? like what movements do they make? I am curious about these things hope you don't mind me asking.
Lone Wolf, I believe I was back to almost full conciseness immediately after the shock. I remember my arms contracted (hands and arms moved towards each other) when I got shocked. No pain and felt almost 100% after the shock. Hope that helps...
Hi buddy still shit scared I go tommorow for the new SICD and pacemaker combo by BOston...any tips tricks to help me keep not shit scared respect buddy.
I have a question, I may be getting a ICD in the next few weeks, I am also a ham radio operator, K5CWR. have you had any issues running an amp and it setting off you ICD|?? I currently run an AL80B amp with at 1 KW power
Lone Wolf, I've heard that an AED will not deliver a shock if it detects a normal heart rhythm. therefore if a person's ICD has not restored a normal heartbeat an AED would be appropriate for a last resort.
Uncle Dan that is correct, maybe in edge cases it can be dangerous, for example if you are touching them while they get a shock or if the AED detects a cardiac arrest it charges the icd shocks, return to sinus, AED shocks, no effect or possible return to cardiac arrest(shock on t phenomenon)
It’s good to get your first zap, and to finally know what to expect. After that NBD, unless of course you get multiple zaps. I know a guy who got 80 in a row. We called him the “Zap King”
80 in a row that's crazy ..I had mine in for 17 yrs and nothing then one day I'm in the kitchen and bang ..at first I didn't know what happened the second one was 15 minutes later the 3 one was 4 minutes after that and that one hit harder..I still got dressed and walked myself out to the ambulance I think it was more so me not ever being shock before that made me stay conscious and not panic ..I swear I didn't feel nothing crazy with my heart then bang ...I see why in certain city's they take away your driver's license when u get one put in .
Hi Uncle Dan, Hope you are doing well. I had my heart attack this year june 19. Doc says I might need a defibrillator implant. Was worried till I watched your video. I am more worried about driving or something and getting shocked. Any more shocks since May?
Yes, and what I really don’t hope is that a shock put you in cardiac arrest/ what a icd has to shock you out of, that is a thing called shock/R on T phenomenon
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Had my ICD implanted last week. I am still recovering from surgery. It helps a lot to know there are people sharing information.
I’ve had mine 12 years. I had only had it about three weeks when I got shocked. I was asleep. If I hadn’t had the ICD my wife would’ve found me dead next to her. No issues since. I just had a change out on 7/9/24. I’m very glad I have one.
@@jamespatton2975 how physically active are you? Like how do you work out? And what is your EF? Did it improve?
@@jamespatton2975 iam 34 and try to walk around 2-3 miles of mixed terrain 4 days a week
@@2050ankrush
I’m 74 and I do what ever I want and have the energy to do. I do work out because I don’t have time. I do a lot of tractor work. I’m about the start cutting and splitting fire wood for this winter, I enjoy a good fire. I’m an electrician by trade and still do a bit of work when I’m called. I weld, use all my electric tools, chain saw and ride a motorcycle. What else can I tell you.
@@2050ankrush
My EF was just under 30 and improved a bit with med change last year.
I realize this is an older video but I wanted to thank you for sharing this.
I'm 54 and about to go from a pacemaker to an ICD. It has me terrified but your humor really helps.
Hope you're still alive and kicking.
I hope your doing well sir.
@@opa1004 still alive and kicking
@@RVBob good to hear. Yesterday my mom had a widow maker heart attack.,put 2 stents in, Thier sending her home with a SafeVest. I'm hoping she can say the same as you in the future.
@@IIlIIIlllIlII probably talking about the vest that has a defibrillator attached to it.
As others have said - Thanks for this. I got mine at 29 - I am 33 now. No shock yet. I always wondered what it would be like. Thanks for helping us understand!
I hope you are well!
Checking in, how are things?
@@chadhollingsworth7535 I had my annual check up last week. I am about two years out from getting my device replaced.
According to the doctor- docs here (Canada) do much cleaner stitching than the US? (He was trained in the US and brand new.)
I'm so glad that you haven't! In October, I got my first shocks - 5 in a row so I had a scary ambulance ride. I had mine 3 years before those 5 shocks. Mine was more like gunshots than kicks to the chest. Superventricular tachycardia due to chf. I feel worse than ever now. Think my heart is paying for those shocks so hoping I bounce back. Keep up on your nutrients!! I was deadly low on potassium and magnesium and my sodium was dropping!
Hi, I’ve had my ICD for 5 1/5 years nine times , was sleeping the first two times ,was asleep in 2018 . Then in 2021 in January I got a new generator ( battery ) jumping ahead my ICD has went three times since Oct 23rd , two shocks . This thing two more times four more times in December. Then in November I got shock just one time in the garage . So that’s seven times , two days I was in hospital two different times . Then Dece 16th it went off again two times with in 15 seconds apart , called the squad to pick me up . Took me to a community hospital, there an hour , the squad took me by the same squad to a larger hospital in Sarasota,fl. I was there five days after that , they started me on I’ve different meds , and are talking about a device up grade to a three wire device . Had a heart attack in 05-06 that damaged the bottom part of my heart so in 2015 in May I went into a weird rhythm, got to the hospital where they got two IV started , then I coded , they hit me three times with the paddles, then put me on a helicopter to Sarasota,fl . Did a heart cath then implanted the device . It’s scary as hell and if awake it hurts like hell but it saved my life .
So don’t be afraid this thing has saved my life 10 times. I’ll take the shock to keep on living
, after 7 shocks it’s worth the risk to stay alive. After the last two I’m starting to get kinda getting use to it and it’s not bad , the first time was scary the first , but I’m still alive. Good luck to anyone that reads , just know that if you get shocked it just saved you . 😷😬😬
Scares me shirtless..
@@GlockmanGG seems to me they’d adjust your meds a bit and stop some of that. That’s what they did with me. Been issue free for years now.
@@nelm8257 it’s concerning but it sure beats the alternative……….dying in your sleep !
I just had my first Icd installed, im 31years old. Installed on December 18th 2018. I just had my first shock today at 1130 am. In the shower. I was standing there washing my face. And then POW! Right in the chest! Like someone just punched me right in the center of my chest.. i have not received my bed side receiver yet. So i give the dr a call. And they said. If you receive another shock within 24 hours go to the ER. I Just wanted to share my story of my 1st shock. And thank you for sharing yours.. its sure one way to wake up in the morning besides a hot shower!. Damn!
Chris, suppose it's better to have had the experience right away rather than going through life always wondering "how bad if and when" I'm sure your doc is gonna want to pull the data off the device and see what caused the shock. wonder if you felt ok just before getting shocked? good luck and keep me posted.
@@uncledan8320 The crazy part is I had no prior symptoms right before the shock that day. One thing I did have the previous day was some palipations. I wonder if there was a connection. Heres a little story, I was diagnosed with heart disease on Nov 18th 2018, stayed in the hospital for 4 weeks. And needed the defribulator for Ventricular tachycardia. My appointment is in two weeks to see the Electrophysiologists.
Hey, I Finnaly got to see the device doctor. They did the wireless interrogation of my ICD. So they determine I did not go into a bad arythmia. I got what was called a inappropriate shock. The ICD detected what it thought was v-tach, But my heart was fine. So they readjusted my icd to read my heart on a differnt lead. I also had two other untreated episodes, I determined the episodes were from me strenuously using my arm muscles, and pectoral muscles. Pushing a bed one day, and doing laundry one other day. These were. Probably the most strenuous things I have got into after leaving the hospital.. just a update. Thanks dan for sharing. Im glad i Found someone who can relate.
@@chrisr6459 I guess in a way it's a "win-win" for you. I know the shock sucks but after you get one there is a sense of relief that you know what it's like. the good part for you is it really wasn't your heart misbehaving. hopefully the doc gets all your settings dialed in correctly so you dont receive anymore "inappropriate therapy" keep me posted!👍
wow you can have it removed
My husband just got an ICD implanted last Monday, like others are saying, we are thankful for your take and experiences
30 years old, third pacemaker, I think I just experienced my first shock. I almost called 911, my girlfriend is coming over right now as I’m writing this. It felt like lightning, I’m short of breath and I might go to the emergency room.
How are you doing now ?
Dan, Don here. I REALLY appreciate the honest and not sugarcoated experience video. This was MUCH better than any hospital video. I also noticed you said "Rockford" I am from Machesney Park. Who would have thought. Thanks again, Buddy!
Top man for sharing Dan 👌🏻😂 I’ve had my device 10 years now and have had 7 shocks - never easy especially when you know it’s coming. I don’t get faint and I can feel the tachycardia so I just hang on to whatever’s nearest and wait for the bang 🤣
I was thrown across the room. I had 5 in a row for my first. I'm still completely freaked out actually. Superventricular tachycardia is NO fun. The amiodarone is much worse in a way.
Great video. I had my first shock yesterday. Wow it was really an eye opener. I think it saved my life.
They are very dangerous devices in that the ICD EMF shielding is insufficient to protect the device from EMF manipulation... above 60Hz EMF. I found this out the hard way when the ICD produced extreme tachycardia which was life-threatening . I have started procedures to get it turned off.
Dan, glad you're OK.. Not sure what your normal blood pressure but not all that surprised this happened on the toilet. This is a fairly intensive process on the body, also when you squat, go the bathroom (2) or even very deep breath it puts pressure on the vagus nerve. Vagus nerve is part of the parasympathetic nervous system so it will slow your heart, sometimes dramatically and that apparently triggered the device or triggered the problem that triggered the ICD..
- Definitely make sure your blood pressure stays in the normal range, you should check it daily. Helps to spot problems before they happen, but also that your medication is working right and not too little/much.
- Be extra careful when going in to the shower or bath tub, that temperature shock can dramatically drop blood pressure, it's fairly common for people to get stroke from this. I once got a tachyarrhythmia from going in the shower.
- also be careful getting up too fast, especially after sitting awhile.
I've had mine 5 years, never a problem. Currently in hospital after receiving 3 shocks in 6hours. Plus the device alarming about 6 -8 times between. Made for a very nervous evening I can tell you. Turns out it wasnt even my heart... instead I have a fractured lead that need replacing. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Yeah if it's alarming then there's something wrong with the device ..if it's a shock and your heart rate is going crazy then it's Bec of the rhythm..
My husband is getting his fixed after having it for only two weeks. I'm freaking out. That surgery is no joke.
@ChristyHyre Always look on the bright side. At least it's the device at fault and not his heart. I think my initial surgery was just over 4 hrs as I was born with TGA so routing the wires is abit more complicated. I'll be sending your husband positive thoughts..
Brilliant mate thanks from Australia, I'm hoping that you are going well, I'm having one fitted ina few weeks so here's hoping 😂❤
Every time I get shocked my first thought is well shit I can’t drive for six months. Second thought is whoa. It saved my life again and I’m so thankful for it.
Thanks for posting this. I got my ICD six weeks ago (today I can raise my arm past my shoulder!). I do have phrenic nerve irritation so I get a sort of “tick” from time to time, but no shock. I’ve heard it’s like a mule kick in the chest when it comes. I still get lightheaded too...
Yeah it's not pleasant I know what yo expect now when mine goes off again 😊
I'm glad I found this channel/video. I had an ICD implanted 3 weeks ago for my medical condition know as Brugada Syndrome. I haven't experienced a defibrillation shock but I have noticed pacing shocks constantly. My anxiety is through the roof and I can hardly sleep at night because I constantly feel the pacing therapies of my ICD. This may sound weird but I can feel it more when I'm laying on my left side or on my back. Thanks for sharing your video.
Do you still feel the pacing? It could be your phrenic nerve, please contact your doc for further information. It’s not normal to feel the pacing. BR
I was recently diagnosed with the same thing and its been really scary for me. How are you feeling bro? Does the ICD bother you? Are you able to do regular activities again? Has it shocked you?
@@OperationTubeYou The issue was the device voltage setting, my EP reprogrammed it to a lower voltage and that resolved my issue. Thanks for your replay!
@@jonathongrinols283 Physically, I feel great. Yes and I back to my normal activities (hiking, golfing, and running). Remember this, you've always had the gene that can trigger a BrS attack prior to being diagnosed. Unless your doctor tell you otherwise, then resume your life as normal. Regarding the ICD, no it doesn't bother me. Took awhile to get use to having the implant and to get over the fear of being shocked. The ICD is a good thing, like a guarden angel! Think of it like this, when your driving your car do you constantly worry about dying from a wreck? There are safty devices to keep you safe (airbags, seatbelts, etc), think of your ICD as a seatbelt or an airbag. Its there to keep you safe!
@@CantGetRight911 Thank you so much for sharing your story and responding to me. I sent you a Facebook message and would love to discuss it more. Thank you.
I’m getting a ICD implant January 31st at Kishwaukee hospital in Sycamore. I appreciate your video and information.
Thank you for being honest
How r u doing dan.. ❤ How's ur device working..
Just had an ICD installed on 03/11/2022. On 03/02/2022 I suffered a major heart attack at home. 911 was called and EMS arrived just in the nick of time to save me. I was faded out to black with a pulse oxygen of just 3 and in full fib. Next I knew I was looking up at EMS with a Oxygen bag on feeling confused and scared at the same time, like someone woke me from a sleep and I was ready to fight for my life. I arrived at the hospital where I was put in the ICU unit to be monitored diligently 24/7. On 03/04/2022 I went into full arrest two more times. Once while trying to have breakfast around 8:00. The strange thing was there was NO PAIN involved at all, It was just fade to black like going to sleep and chest compression's and the shock following, bringing me back again. This time I could feel my ribs chest and back hurting from CPR. The next attack came around 4:00 the same day. This time after two shocks I felt something. The second shock was literally being slammed in the chest with a sledge hammer. I remember opening my eyes and getting out the words What The Fuck as I came to. From the experience I know what it's going to feel like when and if another event happens to me. The good thing is, it happens so fast and doesn't last for more than a second with no lasting effect. I also have a transmitter to relay information to the hospital so they know what's going on. Uncle Dan, you, I, and scores of others know what it's like to be at deaths door with one hand on the knob. Technically we were Dead and granted a second or third chance to live. I now have three dates to celebrate each year, My natural birth date 08/22/63, my re birth dates 03/02/22, 03/04/22.
Two weeks ago, I got shocked by my defibrillator several times in a row while I was at my job at Costco. I was on my break at the time and was standing at the urinal in the mens room when the first when hit. I did not have a cardiac event. The wires were misfiring. I'm sure I could have tolerated one shock.....but several in a row! Ended up EMT transport to ER and when they did a reading of my device, found out that I had actually been shocked 16 times!! Some of the shocks were back to back therefore the reason I felt several.
I am sorry bob. How are you now?
Jeez bro hope you’re okay. What was it?
I just had icd shock in july .Beginning of 2019 I 2 also had 2 heavy heart attacks which I really didnt notice.I am just able to remember half way through hospital inside ambu .then I learned inside ambu they have given 370 and in hospital 2 times 300. I am remembering last 300 painfull but fantastic.I am still afraid of having that shock during the day .
Thank you for sharing... getting procedure in 2 weeks...nervous
I had mine place at the beginning of July due to cardiac arrest and not even few days of discharge, it shocked me. Didn't hurt me, just caused more anxiety but slowly recovering.
I was shocked by the paramedics four weeks ago. It’s a good wack in the chest. My heart was beating 298 bpm. I had heart attack four months earlier. Got ICD implant April 15 and the drugs make me light headed also. Thank you for sharing and god bless you.🙏
U had a heart attack and they didn't put in a defibrillator..wow ..also above 180 bpm is dangerous most defibs are set to go off once u go over 180 170 you're lucky bro..
@@redbarline8848 You don't get a defibrillator after a heart attack....and you do not defibrillate a heartbeat. You only defibrillate "ventricular fibrillation". A fast heart beat would be Atrial Fib with a rapid ventricular response, sinus tachycardia (SVT), or Ventricular Tachycardia. Those "could" be cardioverted, not defibrillated, depending on patients symptoms and vital signs.
Thanks for sharing man this was the best explanation of the shock I could find on here well from a real and personal experience. I'm getting one here in a few weeks and was more concerned with the shock than about the procedure lol
good luck Vince, you'll be fine. if you get the shock its really not that bad. keep me posted on your progress.
Vince, also wanted to let you know the install procedure is cake. I've had root canals that were worse than the icd procedure.
I've had mine for about 8-9 yrs been shocked about 8 times in last year they finally decided to put a new one in and reprogram it hopefully I'm good to go👍
Thanks for kind of laughing about it; you definitely make it more personable and down to earth. You seem like a fun guy to have a beer with and trade stories. Just got mine installed and been reading all the hype. Good luck to you
uncle dan are you still with us? i see all your videos stopped about a year ago. hope you are A OK!
He dead?
Looking into having defib/pacemaker installed. I am a bit scared about all of it. Thank you for helping me to better know what to expect. Blessings to you!
I go In tomorrow for mine to be placed after waiting for 8 months to have this done
Cardiologist team is turning up the heat on me to get the ICD done. I had a afib episode while driving down the road in my big truck . It was previously undiagnosed, so everyone was surprised. Fortunately a Missouri state Trooper just happened be there when I went off road. I regained consciousness just as they're wheeling me into ER . After multiple tests it was determined that I had 90% blockages in 2 main arteries around the heart. I also have intermittent AFIB which seems to be controlled by medication . Finally, I seem to have a dead spot in my heart that is believed to be the result of a previously undiagnosed heart attack. No chest pain whatsoever. Doc wants the ICD as a backup if it was to happen again. Open heart surgery and stents were ruled out as a high risk procedure. Medication is kicking my butt , making me unstable on my feet. I really suck as a patient in the hospital, as was determined by my last stay when they did a heart cath on me.
Does the remote monitoring cost anything...? I just received an ICD last week...I got two shocks at the hospital...the 1st I was awake and felt it all under a fentanyl cloud from the hospital and the second time they put me to sleep before hitting me with it...
Hi, my name's Gail, and I live in U.K. I have an ICD, due to heart attack. I had 3 stents fitted,on lots of meds. Have you ever experienced a sorta, tiny pulse just below your neck? I do, and it scares me. I've seen Dr, and he says nothing to worry about, but it still feels weird, like a little drummer, banging on just above my sternum, around to my left hand side. Thanks! 😀
Gail, I've never experienced what you have described. Sometimes when laying down trying to fall asleep I feel and kind of hear my pulse on one side if my neck ( I think the left side). I remember my Dr saying the artery in my neck makes jog or turn that may account for what I'm feeling. Sorry I cant be more help. Good Luck and let me know if you ever figure out what it is. Try not to let it stress you out.
I have my second follow up tomorrow since I had my implant this past May. About three weeks ago I woke up about 2 in the morning with a terrible pain right where my heart is. It subsided after a minute or two. It didn't feel like a shock, just hurt like hell.
hey uncle dan im 27 years old, VSD REPAIR open heart surgery at age 2 now years later ventricular tac at age 27 got my first shock a week after implant during super bowl sunday knocked the hell out of me
im having a surgery soon if all goes well i can get this thing out of me but yeah.....shew that shock is no joke...but it saves your life. i do miss drinking beer im afraid to now i guess thats kinda a good thing and i stopped dipping after 15 years.
Thanks for sharing. Similar to you I was sitting and having a video conversation when suddenly I started to pass away. I managed to take one deeper breath, say a name of my wife and that was it. I felt like some heavy package would have felt on the back of my head, I opened my eyes, slowly realized what happened and ... suprisingly I was still on the video conversation. My mum asked why have you lowered your head for a moment? So that was it just 3 - 4 seconds. No big pain at all and back to life.
Yaroslav Dec but what happened ? Did your heart mess up and the ICD brought you back to life ?
I recently got shot three times and my manager had not sent the message to the device clinic or the company
Take care Buddy I feel you!
I am about to get icd implant next week I am 19 years old with heart failure been wearing a lifevest for the past eight months and I am honestly kind of terrified if there’s anything that you could tell me that might help me in the situation please get back to me let me know please
Enjoyed this video, I've been through similar procedures.
How you doing now. I realise its been 5 long years
Thanks for sharing. My ICD is 6 months old… and no shocks so far. Good to know that it wasn’t the “kicked by a horse” sensation! 👍
someone ever sneak up on you and it scare the crap out you?
well add a shock component
and a "Holy crap+i'm still alive+what do i do now" to it
and you got it.
Got shocked last week and mine felt like the horse kick.legs and arms flipped in the air and I made a grunt sound
Respect buddy waiting a icd..but shit scared also...hope your good fella..love respect from uk...
Hi mate, don't worry about it to much I got mine back in uk 2012, had my 1st shock 2022 and then 3 within 2 hours last week, it's nothing like a kick from a Horse. it's half a second light punch to the chest and touching a live plug at the same time is the best I can describe. I was the same as your self thinking about it and the operation, you will not feel a thing, so don't lose to much sleep it's a Doddle, Good luck.
@@tomhill3439 really really appreciate the reply buddy as not many do as only want the viewers really. But yes had the SICD and bluetooth wireless pacemaker too .I'm on a research programme new concept ???..but healing good ..the shocks are in my head all the time thinking when is going to happen.but I too hope you are doing well and minimal shocks as your reply has touched me and want to offer and hope you the very best of health for as long as possible.kind regards nel uk male 49y
@@nelm8257 Hi mate, Hope you're in good health, good to know you have the S-ICD and malfunctions from leads is zero with that device, lucky sod, I had another shock on Monday so I'm having a V T ablation next couple of weeks, can't wait, all the best.
My dad just had this procedure.
Not been shocked yet, however my St Jude does Vibrate for a few seconds and stops ,maybe twice a day. Glad ur ok.
Thanks - humerous and reassuring. Still waiting for mine to kick in.
I just had mine put in on the 30 of Oct and I'm still in recovery and I'm 26 years old
Thanks for this. Best wishes.
Any more episodes after 5 years?
I had my first one implanted back in 2013 at 31 and now have my second one implanted.the shocks for me are strong.like an aggressive kick to the abdomen
I had my first shock 3 days ago. I have hypertrophic myocardiapathy
Thank you for posting this has helped us so much hope you are doing well. 🤗
I m really glad u survived. I haven’t had one minute of peace since my Defrillbulator malfunctioned. I had 51 shocks in less than 3 hrs because of a malfunctioning device. It is devastating. There is so much more to this and I feel ignored and unimportant with no answers.,how can those that work for St. jude tell me they don’t what will happen now that i have two.
You should put a Magnet on it and call 911
Thanks for sharing.
A wire came loose after 7 years and that damn deffibulator started shocking me until the battery died. Over 20 shocks, 8 at my house 4 in ambulance and 6 more in er. I almost wouldn't let them put me another one.
HAD AN ICD FITTED ON THE 26 JUNE 2024 HAVENT BEEN HIT YET BUT WORRIED WHAT WILL HAPPEN, JUST A BIT FRIGHTENED.
I'm having an ICD fitted in april, Guy's I'm really stressed out about it, been worrying for months. Don't know what to do
Don't worry about it to much the procedure it self is fine and very quick and not sure how they do it in other countries I was back home the following day.
but I did lose a lot of confidence at first but over time you do get it back again.
Hope it all goes well for you good luck 🤞
@@ianbakedbean4079 i appreciate your words. Thank you
@@Garymayes24 are you from UK 🇬🇧 or 🇺🇸 USA I was 39 when I had mine and struggled to find any help from anyone similar age it all seemed to be older people.. Let me know how your getting on if you want to talk more find me in Facebook Ian Horsfall same picture as my youtube one
@@ianbakedbean4079 im from the UK Ian. I'm 56 now. Wow, you had yours at 39!!! Got mine coming up soon, everyone tells me it's kinda painless and over quickly but I'm still stressed a little bit. Thanks again buddy. I'll let you know how it goes. Thanks for your thoughts.
@@Garymayes24 it is still a stressful time no Dr or nurse could of put my mind at ease it's just the unknown I watched the operation being done on youtube it made feel more at ease but that's because I like to know exactly what they will do its not for everyone..
I was waiting for an ambulance to come for somone else as the ambulance pulled up my heart just stopped luckily they turned up when they did.. My device has saved my life on a few occasions since then for that I'm grateful I'm due to have a new one anytime now as my battery is going flat lol all the best
It took 5 years for my first shock
Thanks Dan, I will be getting a Pacemaker in the next few weeks. It is a leadless, can not find any people who have, only company propaganda, hope you are well.
I have metronic with my icd Had plenty of shocks Never heard from them 5 big ones in a row It happened on Sunday I knew no body Drs would be there I thought I saw a recall on St Jude's Anyway trying to get an ablation scheduled but there are 3 or 4 Drs in a hospital that serves 130 counties I have had it for four years and I believe some of these shocks are due to the medication combos they put you on It's scary
Wow the metronic should have picked up your fast heart rate and call to check if you're ok .. sometimes a drug combo can bring on a fast rhythm..
I got 55.shocks on less than 3 hrs. I am not glad at all and I am scared to death because now I have two f them in me because they could not take the other one out. They did not give me any device on my nightstand and I had no idea after 23 years that it could malfunction. Not happy and I am petrified.
Got mine in 2018 for chronic afib I've gotten zapped 4 or 5 times first it happed when I plugged in a light
wow sounds like it zaps you good when it happens. im going in 7days from now to get a defib put in. im scared shitless. I don't like the idea that I can't drive for a month. won't be able too work at all. can't afford that. im 71 years old. bill
Bill, it's really not that bad. Try not to stress over it. odds are you'll never get a shock and if you do it probably saved your life. not driving for a month sucks. Dont worry, the procedure to put it in is a piece of cake. I came home the same day. let me know how you do, I'll be wondering. good luck, but you'll be fine.
Dan
OMG, I’m getting one on the 20th of June and I’m also scared shitless. I had open heart surgery last year to replace my mitral valve and I was less scared of that even though the recovery was absolutely brutal (and I knew it was going to be a difficult recovery). I’m also going to have an ablation a month after the ICD implantation and it scares me to know I’ll be totally depend on the ICD’s pacemaker function. It sucks to have heart problems.
@@rf101259 I totally agree that it does suck to have heart problems. part of mine was self inflicted but some bad genetics in play as well. wish I would have taken better care of myself when I was young. 62 years old now and hope to string a few years of retirement together while I still feel ok. try not to be scared and try to have faith in your doctors. please keep me posted on your progress. Good Luck but you'll be fine.
@@rf101259 I think your outcome will have you around for quite a bit longer than a year. it amazes me the technology they have now. I too sometimes struggle with the thought of my own mortality but I think at some point everyone does. just be glad we're living in a time where they have these devices to help us live a more normal life. a couple decades ago we might not have been so lucky. stay strong!
Just had mine put in at 38 went to work monday drs on tues coukdnt breath good and to the er congestive hf year later now just got icd 4 weeks ago no shock yet kinda scared lol being 38 on ssdi kinda sux but better then being dead ive come to realize and appreciate! Ao good luck ull be ok !
I can totally relate. That medicine is no joke. Sounds like yours was not so bad. Mine made me feel so bad. I was about to give up on it. I had a cardiac ablation to deal it’s my arrhythmia. However it did not work as well as expected and now I must get a defibrillator.. thanks for,sharing your story.
Julie C sorry your procedure wasn't fully effective. The procedure to implant the device really wasn't that bad so don't worry.
Uncle Dan not really worried about the procedure more about being painfully shocked. Did it improve your heart function? Do you feel better than before. I hope so.
Julie C don't worry about getting shocked, if it happens it probably will have saved your life. The devices today are very sophisticated and rarely deliver a shock unnecessarily. My heart is slowly getting stronger but not due to the device. I feel better knowing I have a built in EMT crew to respond instantly if needed. Think of it those terms and try not to be afraid of getting a shock, odds are you never will. Good luck.
I would like to talk to you about the ICD because I have one too and I don't know who I can talk to about it. Please let me know the proper ways I can reach out.
But what caused the shock? 6:45
I'm 25 and getting mine in two weeks because of a genetic condition. I'm nervous about this whole thing
I remember my first shock, it was during the implant. Apparently I wasn't under enough and experienced it. I'm actually thankful for that, I'll know what to expect if it has to occur. So far, the Pacemaker has been doing a great job. My thoughts are powerful that even those of us with identified Cardiac problems, Having a Defib/Pacemaker is a great thing. I know too many that would be here today if they were equally equipped. Great video, thanks for sharing.
Pat,
I remember when they knocked me out for the test during the implant procedure. they must have used enough knock out juice because I didn't feel a thing. I just remember them telling me to count backwards and then it was lights out. my mom died at age 58 from cardiac arrest, this was back in 1988. not sure they had implantable defibs back then but I often wondered if one would have saved her. thanks for watching!
I havet and its weard i get panic when it shocks me
Syncope. Blood pressure drops. Tonight my icd gets interrogated to find out if it shocked me or I had a seizure. I clamped down so hard on my tongue I think my clitoris dropped.
But I feel that wire got hot.
Well my icd didn't go off. So it was a seizure.
Wires fine.
Sure hope you're doing good.
I had mine 3 months when I apparently went in to AFIB with RVR causing my device to fire 8 times. 3 months later I was in AFIB RVR again and took 6 more shocks. Neither incident was considered life threatening but the device will fire if your HR exceeds the threshold set by your Doctor. They told me it would not fire until you are passed out. While that may be true in a real life threatening heart emergency, it is not true in other circumstances.
I agree with others it is not like getting kicked by a horse. I am betting a horse kick is far far worse. It is more akin to someone ambushing you with a pretty hard slap on the back, while sticking your finger in a light socket, while at the same time in your mind you see a flash that is not there but feels very real. The first time mine went off I was standing, scanning a boarding pass at an airport. I thought a bomb went off. After realizing it is the ICD the second one hit, then I thought the battery was exploding...it wasn't. The biggest "shocking" and frightening factor, at least when it happens while conscious, is that is without warning and instantaneous...completely blindsiding. It is over in a millisecond. By the time you feel it and start to utter an F-Bomb it is over before you get to -ucckkkk...but it still comes out. 🙂
ADVICE IF IT GOES OFF WHILE CONSCIOUS: Acknowledge it is happening. You will be able to function between shocks so control the fear of the unknown. Remain calm and if possible, lie down, control your breathing to bring your heart rate down.
Thankfully I can laugh about the incidents and that I was "riding the lightening" but it is still traumatic and can cause some PTSD. In the weeks following my second incident I was startled awake a few times thinking my device fired. It did not.
I had mine first time yesterday. ICD goes off 7 times. So far the worst experience in my life. I'm in the hospital since yesterday and I hope it will not happen again..
I go this Wed. For my icd I. 44 and I've was diagnosed with congestive heart failure 💔 and I'm fuk I ng scared of dying before my son even graduate high school he's 8 now.
I got whacked twice, both times after I passed out, never felt it. Just woke up and everyone was asking what happened. Wonderful devices.
I hope you fl better 🌹
Uncle Dan thank you so much for sharing your experience with us. I recently had a aicd implanted, (Feb 13), and kind of still in denial. It's been just about a month ago and I haven't looked at my chest yet. I went to the emergency room for the flu and left 6 days later with a implant. At first I was kind of mad, but after researching my condition,.plus I died at the hospital, I've accepted it was definitely the right thing. Thanks for your videos, I look forward to seeing more of them in the future.😀
supersurf11, glad you're ok and glad you're on the mend. living with an icd is not so bad. like having built in EMT's. I've only had the one shock but have had several episodes where the device paced me out of v-tach. actually had one last Tuesday. hospital called to tell me my remote monitor phoned in. wonder what make device you have. let me know and keep me posted on your progress. glad the videos helped you cope.
@uncledan8320 I hope you're well... I'd like to know how you keeping all these years later after your icd implant. Have gotten shocked again after the first shock?
Also I would like to know what tour devuce name and make is... my brother(19) has a biotronik icd.
I never been shocked like u have but I v fibed which is why I got a icd I took to much potassium as the systems r alike to little or to much but I didn't know that that's where I got my fist shock I was coded so I didn't feel it then my blood pressure tanked from the heart meds they have me on as I didn't have high blood pressure to begin with anyways the hospital gave me something and I coded my 2nd shock I didn't feel a thing my cell phone which I was on when it happened was past my shoes on the bed so the shock my have tossed it. I also have a LVAD left ventricular assisting device that pumps my heart till transplant well it malfunctioned so life flight to the hospital in salt lake I live in montana. In the surgery to replace the pump open heart should be about 15 hrs it was day two still opened up I am under tube in thought I was bleeding out 15 blood transfusions plus 3 plasma and 3 platelets I started getting shocked 23 times I woke up each time clinging to the bed rails begging them to let me die as I couldn't take the pain they had to remove it as the tool to shut it off wasn't working. I finally felt it and my God it hurt. I should say for two months my icd was beeping quite beeps I told the hospital about it they said it was the battery and nothing to worry about all I know is I'm glad I was in the hospital cuz I replaced the plumbing in a place I thought I was going to be able to buy and I was fixing the roof the day b4 they life flighted me and I wouldn't be here if it went off in either of those situations. It saved my life a few times wven know I was in the hospital each time it went off but the thought of 23 shocks if I wasn't would have killed me as there wasn't time to call for help in between shocks and the pain I hurt more from my icd then them ripping open my chest after words in my 2nd open heart surgery. Thanks for sharing sorry wrote u a book but my story is one to know about with life and a icd
Im 29 and i have one for 3 month's now and this has litterly made me homeless i cant work i cant get disability and im constantly been in and oit of the hospital few times a week if lucky. And im living in fear ever since.
That freaking suxs brotha. Gotta be hard. Smh
@Joseph Mason I hope so I finally got a job and still waiting for clearance. But im still homeless
@Joseph Mason im just glad my cousin got me a motel room for couple nights. Finally shower3d n changed clothes n all ina while. Im keeping fighting to get out of this mess and back into society
@Joseph Mason well I use to be an IV meth user. And thats spped up my heart problems. But this been ststying year prior when I became severely anemic from bleed out from an ucler caused by a biopsy.
I was prone to svt and VT
Are you ok sir? How is your ❤?
I go in to have one put in next week. Im pretty scared .
I had it done. No problems and worried for nothing. Not that its isnt an intricate and. Serious proceedure. But its a painless and fast procedure you will be very comfortable and safe.
How are you now?
@@RVBob
Thanks for asking Im doing well. Other that the size of the device i would never lnow it was there. Its working every second of every day. I feel fine. I need to get into an exercise rountine. And after awhile i should be in alot better condition.
Afain thx for asking.
How are you doing?
@@Thatsmisteroldguytou I'm good and not good at the same time. I had a massive heart attack Feb 10th of 2018. Survived that with a lot of damage. Dec 4th (1yr anniversary tomorrow) I went into V-Tac and nearly died. Paramedic hit me with the AED paddles twice (while I was still concious) and I ended up getting a pacemaker on the 6th. Then in April of this year I went into V-Tac again so they changed my Pacemaker for an ICD.
That ended my career, I was an OTR truck driver.
I had one for 5 days and than got transplanted. I had a EF of 10%
Hope you are healing well and your EF rises considerably. Good luck on your journey.
@uncle Dan once you got shocked did it immediately wake you or did it take a minuet? also do you know what a person looks like when they get shocked with this thing? like what movements do they make? I am curious about these things hope you don't mind me asking.
Lone Wolf, I believe I was back to almost full conciseness immediately after the shock. I remember my arms contracted (hands and arms moved towards each other) when I got shocked. No pain and felt almost 100% after the shock. Hope that helps...
Hey Brother how are you feeling Are you still taking arrhythmia medicine
Hi buddy still shit scared I go tommorow for the new SICD and pacemaker combo by BOston...any tips tricks to help me keep not shit scared respect buddy.
I have a question, I may be getting a ICD in the next few weeks, I am also a ham radio operator, K5CWR. have you had any issues running an amp and it setting off you ICD|?? I currently run an AL80B amp with at 1 KW power
I thought I got shot
@uncle dan I was wondering are you not supposed to shock someone when they are getting shocked by the ICD?
Lone Wolf, I've heard that an AED will not deliver a shock if it detects a normal heart rhythm. therefore if a person's ICD has not restored a normal heartbeat an AED would be appropriate for a last resort.
Uncle Dan that is correct, maybe in edge cases it can be dangerous, for example if you are touching them while they get a shock or if the AED detects a cardiac arrest it charges the icd shocks, return to sinus, AED shocks, no effect or possible return to cardiac arrest(shock on t phenomenon)
Thanks for posting this my brother just got gis
It’s good to get your first zap, and to finally know what to expect. After that NBD, unless of course you get multiple zaps. I know a guy who got 80 in a row. We called him the “Zap King”
80 in a row that's crazy ..I had mine in for 17 yrs and nothing then one day I'm in the kitchen and bang ..at first I didn't know what happened the second one was 15 minutes later the 3 one was 4 minutes after that and that one hit harder..I still got dressed and walked myself out to the ambulance I think it was more so me not ever being shock before that made me stay conscious and not panic ..I swear I didn't feel nothing crazy with my heart then bang ...I see why in certain city's they take away your driver's license when u get one put in .
Hi Uncle Dan, Hope you are doing well. I had my heart attack this year june 19. Doc says I might need a defibrillator implant. Was worried till I watched your video. I am more worried about driving or something and getting shocked. Any more shocks since May?
no more shocks since May Joe. No shocks since May. keep me posted on your experience. good luck!
Hi my name is Rex I've been shocked a lot of times you don't want to be driving you will crash it's no joke.
Ya I got it 17 times on 4 separate occasions .
"did you know you got shocked?" hahahaha i had my first shock in 8 years in january. god bless-wish i saw this video before my shock
Oh and btw a icd shock is something like 2kv/2000v with a very short delivery time, normal energy is 40j ICD 300j AED
If you get 3 shocks in 5 min what do I do
Go to the ER.
thank you so very much,.........im am going through the same thing..it helped me..god bless you
It felt like 220
Is uncle Dan still alive?
I have one fitted been shocked 6time knocked me unconscious like being punched
Chris, wonder what the details were around your shocks? are you receiving any treatment to help prevent shocks?
Yes, and what I really don’t hope is that a shock put you in cardiac arrest/ what a icd has to shock you out of, that is a thing called shock/R on T phenomenon
A great many HF Patients pas while on toilet.
Mine went off 8x in one day
Damn
Did it hurt really bad?
Same irregu heart beat