    |
Defibrillator
A defibrillator is an implantable cardioverter or ICD. This device is implanted in the body and is used to monitor the rhythm of the heart and correct the rhythm should the heart start beating too fast. It corrects the heart rhythm by delivering a powerful jolt directly to the heart. That’s enough to slow it down to the proper rhythm. There are many different types of rhythm problems that result from different problems in the heart, and this device does not correct or deal with all of those problems. It is specifically used for the lower part of the heart, or the ventricles. People of any age or background might find it necessary to use this device, as it is possible to be born with an erratic rhythm or other abnormal rhythm problems. But the strong jolt it delivers to correct the problem is not painful—at the most, it is unsettling. It is also not dangerous to the person with the implanted device or anybody who is holding or touching the person at the time. These machines are now small enough to implant in the body. Usually they are implanted above or below the chest, but they can also be implanted to the left or the right. You will be able to see the device beneath the skin, and even feel it. Your doctor, ultimately, will decide where it’ll best fit in your body and also give you the information or the tools you need to care for it properly and continue on with your normal life. People with an implanted defibrillation device do lead normal, healthy, active lives. Related Information Defibrillators Defibrillator electrical current |
