FAQs About Pacemakers and Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs)

Do cell phones or electronic devices interfere with pacemakers or ICDs?

Most cell phones and electronic devices don't interfere with pacemakers or ICDs. But some cell phones and electronic devices such as smart watches and headphones use powerful magnets for wireless charging. This may interfere with the normal function of your pacemaker or ICD.

The charging device itself and other magnet accessories can also interfere with the normal function of your pacemaker or ICD. Store these devices at least 15 inches away from your pacemaker or ICD.

Be careful when you use a cell phone or other electronic devices. Follow these tips:

• Keep them at least 6 inches away from your pacemaker or ICD.

• It's safest to hold all cell phones to the ear farthest from your pacemaker or ICD, or use the speaker mode setting.

• Don’t carry your phone or electronic device in your chest pocket, over the pacemaker or ICD. Instead, carry your cell phone or other electronics in a pocket or bag below your waist.

Follow any other instructions given to you by your healthcare provider or from the manufacturer of your pacemaker or ICD.

Do pacemakers or ICDs need to be adjusted from time to time?

Some devices may need to be adjusted if your health condition or lifestyle changes. Changes are done in the clinic using a device called a programmer. This is a special computer that "talks" with the pacemaker or ICD. This is done using magnetic signals via a "wand" or loop placed over your chest where the device is implanted or through wireless communication. Your healthcare provider will tell you about the schedule of follow-up visits you should keep based on your condition and type of device. You may have an assessment using a monitor, and telephone line. Or it may be done by an Internet connection. Most current ICDs and pacemakers can now be followed remotely. This means the device can send data to your healthcare provider wirelessly.

When replacing a pacemaker or ICD, are the leads also replaced?

If the original leads are working correctly, they will often be left in place and reattached to the new device.

When do I have to replace my pacemaker or ICD?

Most device batteries will last at least 10 years, depending on use. After that time, the battery (or pulse generator) will need to be replaced. Replacing a pacemaker or ICD generator is most often done on an outpatient basis.

Can I travel with my pacemaker or ICD?

Yes, you can travel by air with your device and drive a car, if cleared by your healthcare provider. Airport security detectors are generally safe. But let airport security staff know you have a pacemaker/ICD and discuss the appropriate screening procedure. If you are selected to be screened by handheld wand, politely remind the screener that these wands should not be held over the device area for more than a few seconds. Always have your ID card with you wherever you go. Some people with ICDs may not be allowed to drive unless cleared by their healthcare provider. For your safety, and the safety of others, your provider may advise that you don't drive for up to 6 months after your ICD is implanted, or after an ICD discharge. The life-threatening heart problems that these devices treat can cause you to lose consciousness. This is dangerous if you are driving.

Can I exercise with a pacemaker?

You may be able to exercise with your pacemaker or ICD. But check with your healthcare provider first to make sure the exercise you do will not damage the device.

Will I feel the pacemaker or ICD?

At first, you may feel the weight of the device in your chest. But over time, most people get used to it. You may also be able to see or feel the pacemaker under the skin, though they tend to protrude less over time. A pacemaker generator is about the size of 2 small silver dollars stacked on top of each other. It weighs no more than an ounce. ICDs are somewhat larger than a pacemaker. If the device feels loose or wiggles in the pocket under the skin, tell your healthcare provider. If the ICD sends a shock to the heart or "fires," you will feel this as a jolt or kick in the chest.

Rarely the placement of the pacemaker or ICD wires can stimulate nerves outside the heart. This can cause your diaphragm to twitch. You may feel a hiccup sensation or twitching of the chest muscles. If this happens, call your healthcare provider.

Can I have an MRI with my pacemaker or ICD?

When you have a pacemaker or ICD implanted, stay away from devices with large magnets or magnetic fields that can be created from motors of cars or boats. An MRI is an imaging test used to take images of your body using magnets. Most modern-day pacemaker and ICD devices are approved to have an MRI. But always talk with your provider before having this test to make sure it's safe for you. Electromagnetic interference can be created by other machines, and these can affect the normal function of your device. Stay away from high-voltage radar machines such as radio or TV transmitters, electric arc welders, high-tension wires, radar installations, or smelting furnaces. If you have any broken or leftover wire in your body, you won't be able to have an MRI.