Getting used to my ICD

I had my ICD fitted recently so it is all still very fresh to me. There was never any question in my mind about having this fitted I saw it as a precaution and a preventative strategy. I have not had any need for it yet but as my condition deteriorates it will be the next stage for me.

To be honest I had such a difficult time emotionally dealing with the deterioration of my heart that I sought professional psychological help. By the time the ICD came along I was well prepared for it. My cardiologist had already explained that I might possibly need an ICD at my appointments in the past so it was not a surprise when the time came. 

My question was which ICD to choose as I was eligible for two. My cardiologist talked me through the options and her explanation was very clear and easy to understand. I read through medical advice about how they work and asked people on the Cardiomyopathy UK Facebook group, who already live with them, how they feel (and the pros and cons). I made my choice based on both comfort (as an SICD is bulkier and not comfortable with a bra) and on medical grounds (as the ICD I have has a
pacemaker function and, although I don’t need that now, I would be prepared if that need should arise).

I was concerned about my mobility after surgery. But the heart failure nurses in hospital explained everything well and continued to do so at every opportunity before I was discharged. The ICD team also were very clear and understandable in their explanation.

Speaking to the consultants, nurses and device teams helped my husband come to terms with my cardiomyopathy: this was the first time he had a medical explanation of my condition and he was reassured by how the ICD meant I could be monitored round the clock.

The service overall was extremely thorough and I was well looked after. It took me the average time to recover, and it was painful as the wound recovered, but in the grand scheme of things it was a short time. 

I am aware of the ICD but much more used to it. Time will tell how we get on together.

We are grateful to Wendy for allowing us to share her story.

©Cardiomyopathy UK. April 2018