Adjusting to life with an ICD.
Some places that implant ICDs also offer support groups for patients with heart failure that have ICDs. They may have a list of support groups in your community.
Most people with ICDs adjust to living life with an ICD. Their lives may not be the same but they find ways to do the things they like to do. Be sure to ask your doctor about how the important things in your life may change.
Replacement of the ICD
Your clinician may have discussed with you the “battery life” of an ICD. When the battery runs out (in about 5 to 10 years) it must be replaced. Replacing the battery requires replacing the entire device. At the time of replacement, it is important to evaluate if the ICD is still the right thing for your life.
Deactivating the ICD
You may be wondering, “What do I do when I no longer want the ICD?” It is important for you to know that the ICD can be turned off at any time. Some patients may decide that living as long as possible is no longer important to them. Turning the ICD off does not require surgery. Instead, it can be done with a computer.