Implanted Cardiac Defibrillator?

Question

Four years ago I had an episode where I went into V-Tac, the paramedics had to jolt me with their mobile defibrillator to get my heart back into normal rythum.
At the hospital it was determined I needed an implanted defibrellator to controle any further problems. they also put me on the medication Amiodarone which is a antiarrithmic.
Last year I had a episode where the unit discharged five times about one minute apart, felt like getting hit in the chest with a sledge hammer.
After that episode I feel a bit anxious about the next time this may accour, believe me Im not looking foreward to it.
Are there other people that feel the same, apprehensive about the next time, always on the back of your mind?
For those on Amiodarone what side affects do you feel. I get very fatigued.

Answer 1

Please see the web pages for more details on ICD and Amiodarone.
One problem with an ICD is that it sometimes delivers shocks when you do not need them. Even though a shock lasts a very short time, you can usually feel it. Every shock you feel should be notified to your doctor. The settings of the ICD may need to be adjusted or your medications may need to be changed.ICD problems can sometimes be prevented by programming the device to sound an alert when there is a problem. This can be done by your electrophysiologist. If you heart your ICD alert, you should immediately call your doctor.
WARNING: In June 2005, certain ICD models and biventricular pacemaker-defibrillators were recalled by the manufacturer because of a circuitry flaw that prevents the devices from delivering therapeutic electrical shocks when needed. The problem may result in patient death. Two deaths are believed to be associated with the malfunction. Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration did not make any specific recommendations, the agency encourages patients who may have such a device to ask their health care doctor if they should have it removed or replaced. The devices affected by this recall are:
* PRIZM 2 DR, Model 1861, manufactured on or before April 16, 2002
* CONTAK RENEWAL, Model H135, manufactured on or before August 26, 2004
* CONTAK RENEWAL 2, Model H155, manufactured on or before August 26, 2004

Answer 2

i just answered the 2nd part of your question
What are the possible side effects of amiodarone?
• If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking amiodarone and seek emergency medical attention:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· a new or a worsening irregular heartbeat pattern;
· wheezing, coughing, chest pain, or chest discomfort;
· yellowing of the skin or eyes;
· changes in vision, blurred vision, or decreased vision;
· cough or shortness of breath;
· fainting;
· tremor or involuntary movements; or
· skin rash;
• Other, less serious side effects may also occur. Continue to take amiodarone and talk to your doctor if you experience
· dizziness or tiredness;
· upset stomach, vomiting, decreased appetite, or diarrhea;
· changes in taste;
· poor coordination;
· numbness, or tingling; or
· bluish-gray discoloration of the skin.
• Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.