Typically 30%EF and below are the trigger point for implanting a defibrillator because with a low EF you are more susceptible to life threatening arrhythmias or sudden cardiac arrest which caqn really ruin your day.

There are several different types and models, ICD, Bi-Ventricular, and CRT-D, which will be chosen based on your specific condition and needs. I had a ICD, Implantable Cardioversion Defibrillator for 9 years and just last year had a CRT-D, Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Defibrillator implanted.

Here's the bottom line, no reason you should be impaired by the device, it's there as a safety net and in some cases to pace you as well. These devices are highly reliable. Very few patients ever receive a Jesus Jolt from their device. I call them that because when one does hit, I shout Jesus and it's over and done, no biggie. Your heart will feel like it was thumped for a day and that's it. But should that happen you'll know that pocket protector saved your life.

So relax and when you get through the implant enjoy life and don't worry, that's your defibrillator's job. Good luck

Well they didn't find anything with the heart cath on Friday, so now I guess its playing with meds for a little while as they try to figure out what to do with me. I was hoping I was blocked up again so they could fix me. On the good note I feel pretty good so far with the new meds, its not like any of this is going to keep me down away, one day at a time right...

I just found out i will be getting a pacemaker then a stents next week I have to admit I'm a little scared. I looking g forward to getting better though . thank have ?it's I want to do so I'm not ready to slow down yet.
All advice is welcome How long before you Star feeling more energy and pep

Sorry bonblue, just say your reply now. I do not have a pacemaker, I have a defibulator, it does not make me feel any different. I also had a stent places after my heart attack. As far as the way I feel, I have my good days and my bad days, more good than bad. Some days I am so packed full of energy I can not even sleep at night, others I feel so drained and wore out I don't want to do anything for days at a time. The crazy thing is that I was getting very depressed before my defib implant and after I got it that all seemed to go away. I have not had a worry in the world about it and just go on with life like I do not even have it. I think you will do great with your new device!

I've been diagnosed with CHF --- have no idea what its consequence might be. I understand that the blood isn't providing enough oxygen but --- I get winded so easily; I have very little stamina; sometimes, I can't catch a deep, satisfying breath like a yawn or a healthy sneeze; in the mornings, my heart seems to be doing calisthenics -- I mean really irregular beating but it settles down after a bit; at the same time my breathing is erratic but, thankfully, pretty deep. Anyone experiencing anything like this ? I'm really concerned because this CHF thing is really messing up my fun. I've had to give up tennis, racquetball, biking and I don't know (yet) if I have to give up kayaking. H E L P !!

Hi Danggit ~ first to get faster response and proper ettiquet you should start a new discussion.

Still in answer you are describing the classic symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure. It's usually due to failure of the left ventricle of the heart where nutrient and oxygen enriched blood is not being pumped out to the organs causing fluid build up also known as Edema.

Do you have any idea what your Ejection Fraction (EF) is? Normal is anything above 55%. When you have an EF of less than 30 they usually implant a defibrillator and it sounds from your symptoms thats where you fall.

So what's the consequence...well frankly it depends. You will be placed on blood pressure meds, probably diuretics, told to reduce your sodium intake watch your diet and exercise. I already mentioned the defibrillator.

Bottom line I've lived for 11 years with severe CHF known as end stage. Won't win any athletic events, unless they have a pissing contest. And I do fine. Some days are challenging but hey, so is raising kids.

If you follow your treatment regimen and take care of yourself you may even be able to resume some of your activities you had to give up.

Good luck. Keep a positive attitude and don't give up. Life ain't over.