ICD Decision

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ICDs and Pacemakers

ICD Decision

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Topic: ICD Decision (Read 930 times)

AndyL
Newbie

Posts: 13

ICD Decision
« on: February 22, 2010, 11:54:33 am »

Hi Everyone,

I was diagnosed with HCM two years ago and at my last check up my consultant was really encouraging me to have an ICD. I now have an appointment with the lead ICD consultant on Friday.

I have read everything I could, and this forum has been a real god send for the pro's and con's. My head tells me that it is the right thing to do. However, whenever I think I have finally decided to have one, a little voice pops into my head saying - don't be stupid you're having something fitted to your heart! I know some people don't have the choice on whether to have an ICD fitted, but for those that do any tips on how you cope with the irrational fears?

Also, what are peoples views about having the ICD operation locally or trying to be referred to the Heart Hospital?

Thanks

Andrew


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HOCM diagosised in 2008, ICD fitted May 2010, Verapamil

Matt Erlanger
Hero Member

Posts: 2043

I've Got Wind.

Re: ICD Decision
« Reply #1 on: February 22, 2010, 12:45:56 pm »

Hi Andy

I think you'll find most people on here are biased towards "go for it".

If the consultants are strongly recommending it, there are obviously enough risk factors in not having one to justify the NHS spending the price of a small car on you.

You'll see from my other posts on the subject, that I deliberated for a year before deciding to accept the offer and I haven't looked back.

As for your local hospital vs the Heart Hospital, it's difficult to say, but mine was done at the HH and the care was excellent.

If you tell us which is your local, somebody might have an opinion. In my case, I would say steer clear of Coventry, but Oxford is good.

Don't be afraid to ask - it's the only way to make an informed choice.

All the best


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Matt, Stratford-upon-Avon

DoB Oct '63
HCM; ICD Oct '04; Verapamil

Tenor Sax (improving)
Amateur Dramatics www.kads.org.uk (show-off)
Tai Chi (lapsed beginner)

clark
Newbie

Posts: 35

Re: ICD Decision
« Reply #2 on: February 22, 2010, 01:24:21 pm »

Hi Andrew,
my son had his fitted locally Bristol Childrens and they were fab. he's next in april . He had the choice to have his nxt op at the Bristol Heart Institution but we thought the childrens would be best as they have known him for 6 years or so. I've only heard good things about the HH but never been. He will have to go to the BHI this year as he'll be 18 and the childrens hos transfers them at 18 the latest.
I would be worried sick if he never had his ICD

take care


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paddy
Full Member

Posts: 173

Re: ICD Decision
« Reply #3 on: February 24, 2010, 03:33:36 am »

dear andy ive also have had an icd implant and had the same feelings prior to the op i chose to have it at the hh and feel that in my and my familys interest it was the right thing to do give yourself time to make the right decision for you and good luck pat


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father had hcm sudden death 2004 diagnosed hcm 2005 verapermil to aid obstruction 2007 diagnosed grade 2 heartblock pacemaker inserted 2008 vts and vfs meant icd nov 08 also diabetic and requiring insulin and simvastatin april 09 bisoprolol for bp

ChrisB
Sr. Member

Posts: 265

Re: ICD Decision
« Reply #4 on: February 24, 2010, 03:11:00 pm »

I had an ICD implanted locally (Leicester), it was fine.

I'd say if they recommend it then go for it, but there are others here who don't. It's mostly about your attitude to risk and what responsibilities you have for if the worst was to happen and you had no ICD.

Chris.


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Age 35, HCM Diag Feb 08. ICD May 08. This weeks medication is... Verapamil & Disopyramide.

kahikei
Full Member

Posts: 154

Re: ICD Decision
« Reply #5 on: February 26, 2010, 06:10:29 am »

Irrational fear,, I had my will written, funeral planned, I had written pages of words of wisdom for my wee boy. I was convinced I was going to die on the operating table, Here I am alive and well, and 90% of the time I'm glad I have the ICD. Especially when I'm out alone on the hills walking the dog ., The op is like giving birth, horrific at the time, but you soon forget about it. The fear you have is normal.


« Last Edit: February 26, 2010, 08:34:09 am by kahikei »	Logged

AndyL
Newbie

Posts: 13

Re: ICD Decision
« Reply #6 on: March 04, 2010, 03:23:19 pm »

Just wanted to say thank you for the comments - particularly to kahikei, I read the post of the morning of my appointment and it made me laugh, something I needed.

I have decided to have the ICD, and I'm going to have it done locally in Plymouth.

Having it done in May as I broke my right arm three weeks ago, it was thought sensible to get that healed before I lose use of my left !!

Anyway thanks everyone, it is good to get the comments, advice and reassurance.

Andrew


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HOCM diagosised in 2008, ICD fitted May 2010, Verapamil

lorainnetc
Full Member

Posts: 142

Re: ICD Decision
« Reply #7 on: March 05, 2010, 04:08:14 pm »

Id advise anyone who is offered an ICD to go for it. My Eammon was put in 3 years ago this October at the Royal in Glasgow. Ive had no problems with him. The wee bit pain in the beginning is well worth it. I just feel ive got my wee guardian angel on hand to help me along. Go for it
Lorainne xx


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Diagnosed August 2000 with DCM.
Carrier of Duchenene Muscular Dystrophy.
Eamon (my defib) arrived October 2007.

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