Can You Get Vaccinated with an ICD? Safety of Magnetic Necklaces Explained

Q: Can You Get Vaccinated with an ICD? Safety of Magnetic Necklaces Explained

Hello： 1. <br>The implantation of an ICD does not affect vaccination; in principle, if there is no acute infection and the patient's physical condition is stable, vaccination should be possible. <br>The vaccination process will be evaluated by a physician, so please proactively i

Can a person with an implanted defibrillator receive vaccinations? And is it safe to wear a magnetic necklace?

I have hypertension and hyperlipidemia, and on October 5, 2022, I experienced tachycardia with a heart rate of 200 beats per minute, leading to cardiac arrest, after which I received emergency treatment and had an ICD implanted.
Currently, my long-term prescriptions include Diltiazem 25 mg taken twice daily and Atenolol 160 mg taken once daily.
My blood pressure readings are 135/85 in the morning and 151/108 in the evening.
Can I receive the COVID-19 or influenza vaccine? Additionally, due to working long hours in the market and experiencing neck and shoulder pain, I previously used a magnetic necklace (3500 Gauss).
Is it safe to wear a magnetic necklace after having an ICD implanted?

Henrry, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/29

Dr. Huang Yinghe reply Cardiology

Hello: 1.
The implantation of an ICD does not affect vaccination; in principle, if there is no acute infection and the patient's physical condition is stable, vaccination should be possible.
The vaccination process will be evaluated by a physician, so please proactively inform them of your health status.
2.
An ICD may malfunction in the presence of strong magnetic fields, potentially causing the shock delivery function to operate improperly.
According to the American Heart Association's recommendations, it is advisable to avoid wearing magnetic necklaces or bracelets.
It is also recommended to avoid using magnetic pillows or mattresses.
Most household appliances and electronic devices do not adversely affect ICD function under normal use.
For everyday items containing magnets, such as headphones, motors, and antennas, it is suggested to maintain a distance of at least 15 centimeters from the ICD.
Of course, it is sometimes difficult to determine whether there are magnetic fields in the environment, so it is best to avoid potential close contact.

Reply Date: 2022/10/29

More Info

When it comes to vaccination for individuals with an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD), it is generally considered safe to receive vaccines, including the COVID-19 and influenza vaccines. The presence of an ICD does not inherently contraindicate vaccination. In fact, vaccination is encouraged for individuals with underlying health conditions, including those with a history of cardiac issues, as it helps protect against severe illness from infections like COVID-19 and influenza.

However, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before getting vaccinated. They can assess your specific health situation, including your blood pressure and any medications you are taking, such as Diltiazem and Amlodipine, which are used to manage hypertension and heart rate. Your healthcare provider will consider your overall health, the stability of your condition, and any potential interactions with your medications before giving you the green light for vaccination.

Regarding the use of magnetic necklaces or magnetic therapy devices, there are some important considerations. Magnetic fields can potentially interfere with the functioning of an ICD. While most studies suggest that the magnetic fields produced by common household items and wearable devices are unlikely to cause significant interference, it is generally advised that individuals with an ICD avoid strong magnetic fields. This includes high-gauss magnetic necklaces, as they may pose a risk of affecting the ICD's operation.

The American Heart Association and other medical guidelines recommend that patients with an ICD should avoid placing any magnetic devices close to the device itself. This includes not only magnetic necklaces but also other strong magnets and certain electronic devices. If you are experiencing shoulder and neck pain, it would be advisable to seek alternative therapies that do not involve magnetic fields, such as physical therapy, stretching exercises, or other non-invasive treatments that are safe for individuals with an ICD.

In summary, you can generally receive vaccinations while having an ICD, but it is essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider to ensure it is safe based on your specific health circumstances. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid wearing high-gauss magnetic necklaces or any strong magnetic devices to prevent any potential interference with your ICD. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team regarding any concerns or symptoms you may have, and they can guide you toward the safest and most effective treatment options for your health needs.

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