Listed below are general guidelines for individuals with ICD's. Most activities do not affect your ICD. Please contact The Heart Center ICD nurse specialist or your ICD physician specialist (electrophysiologist), if you have additional questions. If you notice any symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, palpitations, or difficulty breathing, please contact The Heart Center to report this.

1. Microwave ovens, blenders, vacuum cleaners
2. Cellular telephones
3. Electric razors, hair dryers, electric toothbrushes
4. Television sets, CD players, radios

1. Medical imaging with an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
2. Magnetic devices should not be placed within six inches of your ICD (unless you are undergoing testing in our clinic)
3. The distributor or coil of a gasoline engine while the engine is running
4. SCUBA diving to depths in excess of one hundred feet
5. Arc welding (unless certain precautions are taken as directed by your physician)

It is safe to pass through airport security systems and anti-theft devices at department and retail stores. You should avoid standing inside these gates. You should move through them without stopping. If it is necessary for the security guard to pass a detection wand over you, be certain that you notify him of the presence of your ICD so that he may avoid the device.

Notify any physician or dentist who provides treatment to you that you have an ICD. This will allow them to take special precautions for certain types of procedures. If your physician or dentist is not familiar with precautions for an ICD, they may contact The Heart Center ICD clinic for advice.

If you receive a single shock and feel fine afterward, no further treatment is necessary. If you receive two or more shocks over a few days or weeks, call our office for an appointment to check your ICD programming and medications. If you receive three or more shocks in one day or have dizziness, fainting, or other symptoms after the shock, go to the Emergency Room immediately. Do not drive yourself.