You Asked. We Answered.

LifeBeat Online Answers Common Questions

At LifeBeat Online, we receive many questions from our readers about living with a pacemaker, implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), or stent. We've selected some common questions to answer in this issue.

Remember, the information you receive from LifeBeat Online is not a substitute for consulting with your healthcare provider. If you have or suspect that you may have a medical problem, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Here's What You Asked:

1. I have an implanted defibrillator and recently joined a gym. They have an electric machine that measures your body fat. It sends electrical signals through your body. Can I use this?

No. If you have an implanted defibrillator or pacemaker, you should not have your body fat measured by an electric machine at the gym or anywhere else.

Here's why:
Some gyms use a process called bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). A common BIA tool looks like a bathroom scale. After providing your age, gender, and height, you step onto the platform. Electrodes (in the sensor pads under your feet) send a low electrical signal through the body. The BIA measures the resistance to an electric signal as it travels through the water found in body fat and muscle. If you have more muscle, you have more water in your body. With more water in your body, it's easier for electrical signals to pass through your body. Your pacemaker or defibrillator could misinterpret these signals as fast heartbeat signals and possibly cause your device to withhold pacing therapy or deliver therapy that you don't need.

Here's another useful measure:
Percentage of body fat doesn't help determine if you're at a healthy weight. A good and safe way to manage your weight is to determine your body mass index (BMI). To calculate your BMI, you need to know your height and weight. Simply enter your weight and height into a BMI calculator, available at a number of websites, including Heart Center Online™. Your BMI will help you learn whether you're at a healthy weight.

2. If I have a pacemaker or implanted defibrillator, can I use an ultrasonic toothbrush at home?

Generally, you can use an ultrasonic toothbrush, but you should maintain a distance of at least 6 inches (15 cm) between the battery charger unit and your cardiac device. You should also maintain a distance of at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) between the toothbrush and your cardiac device.

Here's why:
Electric and ultrasonic toothbrushes that require batteries and/or have a charger emit electromagnetic signals. In some electric devices, these signals can cause electromagnetic interference (EMI). Your pacemaker or defibrillator could misinterpret EMI as fast heartbeat signals and possibly cause your device to withhold pacing therapy or deliver therapy that you don't need. If you have questions about your particular power toothbrush, you should check with your doctor or call Guidant at 1-866-GUIDANT (1-866-484-3268).

3. During the winter, I put my cell phone in the front pocket of my coat, which is over my pacemaker. Someone told me it might cause problems if the phone rings while it is in my coat pocket. Is this true?

Yes. If your phone is in close contact with your cardiac device, it could cause problems—even if the phone doesn't ring. Although using a cell phone is generally considered safe, you should never place it right over your device. Keep the phone at least 6 inches (15 cm) from your device at all times. You should also use the cell phone on the side of your body that is opposite your device.

Here's why:
A cell phone is a source of electromagnetic interference (EMI). Your pacemaker or defibrillator could misinterpret EMI signals as fast heartbeat signals and possibly cause your device to withhold pacing therapy or deliver therapy that you don't need.

4. After my device implant, my doctor told me not to eat any green vegetables. Why is that?

Many people who get a stent, pacemaker, or defibrillator are put on anticoagulants. These are also called "blood thinners." Anticoagulants can help prevent blood clots after your surgery. Certain leafy green vegetables, like broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, spinach, and lettuce, are rich in vitamin K. Vitamin K helps blood to clot and can work against anticoagulants. This could be the reason your doctor told you to stay away from green vegetables while you are taking anticoagulants.

If you are taking anticoagulants and have questions about your diet, please contact your doctor or pharmacist. Your doctor can also refer you to a registered dietitian.

5. I had a stent implanted 2 weeks ago and want to clean out my garage. Can I lift heavy boxes?

You should not lift, push, or pull heavy objects until your doctor says it is okay. Although stent implantation is less invasive than getting a pacemaker or defibrillator, it is still a medical procedure. In general, patients go home within a day or two of the procedure. Before you leave the hospital, your doctor will give you guidelines for activities, diet, and medications. He or she will help you decide when you can go back to your usual activities and return to work.

After your stent implantation, you may feel better than you have in a long time. Some patients return to their usual activities as early as the next week. But every situation is different. Your doctor will help you decide what level of activity is best for you.

Note: Individual symptoms, situations, and circumstances may vary. Please consult your physician or qualified health provider regarding your condition and appropriate medical treatment. The information provided is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment or as a substitute for professional medical advice.

< Back to previous articles

Important Safety Information