What do you tell to children who need an implantable defibrillator?

Some people's heart can go much too fast. This can make them can feel bad and even pass out. A defibrillator can prevent this from happening.

A defibrillator is a small device that counts every heartbeat. If the heart is beating too fast, then the defibrillator sends a burst of energy to the heart, which sends the heart back into its normal rate.

I am not sure exactly what this feels like, but other kids have said it is like "having something thrown at my back" and "being punched in the chest." To be honest, I know it does hurt however it seems to only do so for a few seconds and then the pain is gone.

<< Back to Table of Contents