Arrhythmia is a health condition in which a person's heart will beat too quickly or too slowly; it may even switch between the two. This disorder can be the result of a number of factors, from genetic anomalies to diet or drug use. While it can sometimes be controlled with medication and a healthy lifestyle, some patients require the surgical implantation of an internal cardioverter defibrillator, or ICD.
An ICD can monitor a patient's pulse and use electric shocks to correct it if it becomes irregular. As you can imagine, this is a wonderful scientific development for people with certain health problems. These medical devices can allow patients to live much longer lives than they would have in previous generations, while relieving the anxiety of anticipating sudden cardiovascular problems.
Given these advantages, some people have a difficult time understanding why it might be difficult for people who have received these devices to adjust to life with them. The fact is that any major medical procedure can change a person's life in both medical and emotional ways, and some patients find this hard to become accustomed to.
One important variable that may affect a person's reaction is age. Studies have shown that older recipients of this surgery generally report better relationships with their doctors and higher satisfaction with their lives. To understand why, it is important to note that ICDs for younger people are very rare, and usually required because of an illness, genetic condition, or drug abuse. Furthermore, people with these apparatuses are often limited in the amount of physical activity they can safely enjoy. While this may not be a major constraint for many senior citizens, it can be difficult for younger people to accept.
Anyone with a health problem also needs to pay close attention to his or her diet. This is one issue in particular where doctors often meet a lot of resistance from patients. Food carries a lot of emotional meaning and connections to personal memories in our culture. It is difficult for many people to learn to live without their favorite treats and comfort foods.
Finally, some patients interpret medical intervention as a reminder of their mortality. It is not very rare for patients to become depressed because being hospitalized makes them feel "old," sick, or frightened about dying. People must learn to combat these negative thoughts by focusing on the positive and doing things they enjoy; sometimes counseling is needed.
A few patients have encountered the additional stressor of a faulty ICD. For more information, contact the Medtronic lawyers Williams Kherkher.
Arrhythmia is a health condition in which a person's heart will beat too quickly or too slowly; it may even switch between the two. This disorder can be the result of a number of factors, from genetic anomalies to diet or drug use. While it can sometimes be controlled with medication and a healthy lifestyle, some patients require the surgical implantation of an internal cardioverter defibrillator, or ICD.