Last week, and out of the blue, I had to have a heart pace maker implanted (due to low heart beat and atrial fibrillation) and am also taking drugs to control the upper end of the heart beat range. Anyway, apparently the manufactuer is really concerned about the proximity of any source of electro-magnetic field generation, aka motors! (but not microwave ovens – that’s a myth these days) as they can cause dizzyness and loss of control. No permanant damage to the pace maker though! Their general advice is have things like hand held power tools at least 6″ from the pace maker and some things at least 1 – 2′ away (example, the base unit of an ultra sound toothbrush and cell phones even when off). However, when I phoned them to inquire about my woodworking tools – 1 1/2 HP table saw, 6″jointer, planer, 1 HP bandsaw, floor standing drill press etc. they could only offer the advice to keep all motors of that size at least 2′ away, not to have anything in a locked on position and not to lean over things if I could avoid it! BTW they definitely don’t want me using a gas chain saw. Seems like my power tool days are over but does anyone out there have or know anyone with this experience?
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Replies
Magnets are used to shut the pacemaker off in the clinic so they can check it out and adjust it if necessary, in the office I'm sure you've seen the "donut" magnet they put around the pacer. I'm guessing they're being quite conservative due to liability reasons, but I have to wonder, isn't there some vest that would shield the pacer from EMI?
Thanks for fast response. Good thought and not being knowledgeable myself I'll ask the cardiologist when I see him tomorrow for my first check up. Perhaps there's a lead vest in my future! <grin>
I have had a defibrillator/ pacemaker combo for 10 years now and have used my tools without any problems. I think you will be all right, good luck.
Dick38
I have had an ICD (Pacemaker/defibrillator) for three years, and spend many hour in my shop with power tools. I have had no problems.
Thank you both for the engouraging news.
I'm an ER doc and I really doubt that you have anything to worry about but check with your cardiologist. I'd rather die making a rocking chair than sit in one for the rest of my days!
Roger:
That last statement is a jewel. I am an old man and still work saveral hours each day.I have some friends that seem to not know te difference between "life and living" My shop helper is my wife. She is with her second pacemaker,and so far has had no problems.
Work safely ¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬PAT¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬
See my response to Roger.
Thank you for the response. If I left the impression that I had given up then that is erroneous. I wouldn't post here if I had.
Er, really long push sticks? Looks like you've gotten great advice all around. God luck and good health!
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