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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Understanding ICD and Heart Health
Introduction
An Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) is a small medical device placed under the skin, usually below the collarbone. It helps to detect and correct life-threatening heart rhythm disorders .
Why is an ICD Needed?
ICDs are used for individuals who are at risk of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) due to conditions such as: - Ventricular tachycardia (VT) – a dangerously fast heart rhythm. - Ventricular fibrillation (VF) – a chaotic, ineffective heart rhythm. - A history of prior cardiac arrest or fainting due to abnormal rhythms . - Certain genetic heart conditions like Long QT Syndrome (LQTS) or Brugada Syndrome .
How Does an ICD Work?
- Monitoring: The ICD constantly checks heart rhythm.
- Pacing: If the heart beats too slowly, it provides electrical pulses to pace it.
- Cardioversion & Defibrillation: If a life-threatening rhythm is detected, the ICD gives an electrical shock to restore normal rhythm.
Life with an ICD
- Patients need regular check-ups to ensure proper function.
- Certain electronic devices (e.g., some MRI machines) can interfere with ICDs.
- Physical activity is usually safe, but contact sports might pose risks.
- Emotional support is essential, as living with an ICD can cause anxiety and depression .
Conclusion
An ICD can be a lifesaving device for individuals with severe heart rhythm disorders. Regular medical follow-up and lifestyle adjustments help ensure safety and improve quality of life .
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on ICDs
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/prevention--treatment-of-arrhythmia/implantable-cardioverter-defibrillator-icd
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/prevention--treatment-of-arrhythmia/devices-that-may-interfere-with-icds-and-pacemakers
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001063
- https://professional.heart.org/en/science-news/-/media/832EA0F4E73948848612F228F7FA2D35.ashx
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Implantable Defibrillators
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29191938/
- https://www.escardio.org/Journals/E-Journal-of-Cardiology-Practice/Volume-12/The-subcutaneous-defibrillator-who-stands-to-benefit
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/39/21/1883/4939241
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Ventricular-Arrhythmias-and-the-Prevention-of-Sudden-Cardiac-Death
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/34/29/2281/401445
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
Our advantages:
We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.