Suzammi

Close Arrhythmias
Type: SADS (Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndrome)

I was diagnosed with sudden death syndrome (idiopathic VF)in 1980, and have had an implanted cardiac defibrillator since 1981. I've gone through many AICD models over the years, each one an improvement on the last. Neither arrythmia nor the AICD define my life now.

Treatments

Amiodarone Not Working

Didn't work in the E-Phys lab!

Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator Working / Worked

I've had AICD since 1981. It has saved my life many times (I have primary VF) and have had appropriate & inappropriate shocks over the years. I'm proud to have been a pioneer

Radiofrequency Ablation Working / Worked

I was in chronic bradycardia, with the culprit PVC originating from a sincle source in my ventricle. They were able to find it and ablate it (I thought this was laser ablation, though). I was awake and have never screamed so loud. It really hurt, but fortunately the sensation/pain was over almost immediately. And it worked righr away!

Close Bipolar Disorder

Treatments

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Working / Worked

Currently in DBT group. Very helpful information for coping in more constructive ways.

Group Therapy Working / Worked

Helpful experience for getting in touch with co-dependency & other issues, and for not feeling so alone.

Lamictal Not Working

Side effect was chronic arrythmia that was eliminated with laser ablation (OUCH!)

Risperdal Not Working

Knocks me on my butt.

Seroquel Working / Worked

Works moderately well. I have to be sensitive to approaching mania and increase the Seroquel in response before things get too out ot control.

Topamax Not Working

Didn't work.

Psychotherapy Working / Worked