Things You Can't Do with a Pacemaker - Safety Tips and Lifestyle Limitations

Introduction

A pacemaker is a small device implanted in the chest to help regulate abnormal heart rhythms. Pacemakers use electrical pulses to prompt the heart to beat at a normal rate. While pacemakers are life-saving devices for many people, they do come with some limitations. There are certain activities and environments that can interfere with or damage pacemakers.

In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the things you cannot do with a pacemaker. We will cover potential medical risks, lifestyle changes, travel restrictions, and more. Our goal is to provide pacemaker patients with a thorough understanding of safety precautions they need to take. Let's dive in!

Medical Procedures and Tests

Certain medical tests and procedures have the potential to disrupt pacemaker function. Patients with pacemakers will need to take special precautions or avoid the following:

MRI Scans

MRI scans use strong magnetic fields to create images of organs and tissues. The magnets in MRIs can interrupt the pacemaker's ability to sense heart rhythms and deliver electrical impulses. Newer pacemakers may be considered "MRI-safe" under certain conditions. Patients should discuss MRIs with their cardiologist to determine if it is possible to safely undergo the procedure.

X-Rays and CT Scans

X-rays and CT scans use radiation to visualize inside the body. Large doses of radiation can damage pacemaker circuitry over time. The level of radiation used in most routine X-rays and CT scans is low enough that special precautions aren't needed. But patients should alert technicians to their pacemaker before undergoing these tests.

Electrocautery

Electrocautery devices use electrical currents to remove tissue or stop bleeding during surgery. The electrical energy can permanently damage a pacemaker if used directly over the device. Surgeons must avoid using electrocautery over the pacemaker itself.

Radiation Therapy

High-energy radiation used to treat cancer can disrupt pacemakers. The damage can be minimized by carefully targeting the radiation beams at an angle away from the pacemaker.

Ultrasound Imaging

Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images inside the body. While considered very safe for pacemaker patients, technicians should still aim the ultrasound wand away from the pacemaker site during imaging.

Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)

Electromagnetic energy has the potential to interfere with normal pacemaker function. Patients should avoid or use caution around the following sources of EMI:

Airport Security Screening

Walk-through airport security screens, anti-theft detectors, and handheld security wands can temporarily disrupt pacemakers. Notify security staff ahead of time about your pacemaker. Ask them not to hold security wands directly over your device. Your pacemaker functions should return to normal once you move away from security devices.

Cell Phones

Cell phones generally won't interfere with newer pacemaker models if held 6 inches or more away from the device. Avoid placing cell phones directly over the pacemaker site. Use cell phones on the opposite ear from your pacemaker and don't carry phones in a breast pocket.

Metal Detectors

Walk-through metal detectors should not pose a problem for people with pacemakers if they walk at a normal pace. Handheld detectors could briefly disrupt your pacemaker if lingered over the device. Notify security staff of your pacemaker and request they avoid holding the wand right over it.

Power Generators

Standing near running power generators can interrupt pacemaker function. Generators are common at construction sites, fairs, concerts, and other public events. Don't linger near running generators and maintain a reasonable distance whenever possible.

Induction Cooktops

Induction cooktops use an electromagnetic field to heat cookware very quickly. The EMI can interfere with pacemakers if you stand too close. Avoid standing directly over induction cooktops while they are turned on.

Electric Steel Cutters and Welders

Electric devices used for cutting or welding steel use strong electromagnetic forces. Avoid getting close to these devices when they are switched on.

Physical Movements and Activities

Sudden, jarring body movements have the potential to dislodge the pacemaker lead from heart tissue. Patients with pacemakers should avoid the following activities:

Contact Sports

Any sports where collisions or body blows are likely should be avoided. This includes football, hockey, boxing, rugby, lacrosse, and martial arts.

Skydiving

The rapid deceleration and wind pressure during free fall can potentially dislodge or damage pacemaker leads. Skydiving is extremely high risk for pacemaker patients.

Base Jumping

Similar to skydiving, the abrupt landing force of base jumping poses serious risks. Base jumping is never recommended for those with pacemakers.

Surfing

Falling off surfboards carries a strong shock that can shift pacemaker position. The saltwater environment also poses risks to the pacemaker generator itself. Surfing is best avoided.

Off-Road Biking

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and dirt bikes involve a lot of bumps and vibrations. The constant jostling can potentially dislodge pacemaker leads. Patients should avoid off-road cycling.

Environmental Hazards

Certain environments have potential risks for pacemakers including:

Magnetic Fields

Exposure to strong magnetic fields from sources like power generators, MRI machines, or welding equipment can interfere with pacemaker function. Patients should keep distance from all high-powered magnets.

Extreme Temperatures

While unlikely to cause permanent damage, exposure to very hot or very cold temperatures can temporarily affect pacemaker battery life and function. Avoid direct contact with extreme heat and cold when possible.

Electrical Substations

Electrical substations and large transformers give off electromagnetic forces. It's best to avoid spending time close to electrical substations.

High Altitude

The lower air pressure at high altitudes reduces pacemaker battery life somewhat. This typically isn't a concern except for people who regularly spend time above 10,000 feet elevation.

Lifestyle Precautions

Pacemaker patients should take common-sense precautions in their daily lives including:

Avoid Close/Prolonged Contact with Motors

Car engines, boat motors, and power tools give off minor electromagnetic interference. Avoid hugging running car engines or leaning body parts against motors.

Don't Reach Over Active Stovetops

Leaning over an active stovetop brings the pacemaker closer to EMI from induction burners. Stand to the side of cooktops when reaching for items.

Limit Time Near Running Microwaves

Don't linger next to an active microwave oven, which can create minor interference. Step away while microwaving.

Avoid Placing Devices in Chest Pocket

Don't place cell phones, mp3 players, or electronics in a shirt pocket right over your pacemaker. The EMI could affect device function over time.

Use Caution Around Security Systems

Anti-theft detectors, RFID systems, and electronic tag deactivators can briefly interfere with pacemakers. Don't linger around these security devices.

Keep Distance From welders, torches, and generators

Maintain a reasonable distance from any equipment that gives off strong electromagnetic forces like welders, gas torches, or portable generators.

Don't Let Children Jump on Your Chest

Jarring, forceful pressure directly over the pacemaker could potentially dislodge leads. Gently discourage kids from stomping or jumping on your chest.

Travel Tips for Pacemaker Patients

Those with pacemakers can still travel the world but should take basic precautions:

Bring Pacemaker Identification Card

Always travel with ID stating you have a pacemaker. This will alert security staff and medical personnel in case of emergency.

Request Hand Wanding Instead of Walk-Through Devices

At security checkpoints, ask guards to use hand wands instead of walk-through detectors which tend to interfere more with pacemakers.

Know Your Pacemaker Details

Travel prepared by knowing your pacemaker's manufacturer, model, serial number, and date implanted. This helps emergency medical providers assist you properly.

Carry Contact Information for Your Cardiologist

Have your cardiologist's name and emergency phone numbers handy in case issues arise with your pacemaker while traveling.

Pack Extra Pacemaker Batteries

Bring extra batteries in case yours runs low while on the road. Check with your cardiologist to ensure you have proper spares.

Ensure Health Insurance Covers You Abroad

Confirm your health insurance will cover emergencies related to your pacemaker while traveling internationally.

Beware Long Security Checkpoint Waits

Standing still near security systems for prolonged periods raises your risk of pacemaker interference. Request expedited security screening when possible.

Conclusion

Pacemakers provide life-saving treatment for many people, but also come with reasonable lifestyle precautions. By avoiding certain high-risk activities, being cautious around sources of EMI, and using common sense, most people can live a very normal life safely with pacemakers.

Stay mindful of the potential interference risks outlined here when going through daily life. But don't let fear limit you. With proper care, most activities can be done safely. Your cardiologist can provide personalized guidelines.

The key is to stay informed about general pacemaker precautions. But don't let your device completely restrict your lifestyle. Maintain reasonable caution, listen to doctor's advice, and talk to other pacemaker patients to learn how they thriving with their devices.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.