At Grande Ronde Hospital (GRH) Cardiology Clinic, our mission is clear: to offer comprehensive heart care that meets the unique needs of our community in Grande Ronde Valley and beyond. From prevention and diagnosis to treatment and ongoing management, we are your trusted partner in cardiovascular care.
Reviewed 6/5/2025
From using cellphones to playing sports, here's what to know.
An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) or a pacemaker can be an important part of managing a heart problem. If you have one of these devices, it's important to follow instructions for protecting your health and making sure the device functions properly.
Scroll on to find out some of the things you need to do when you have a pacemaker or ICD.
Know how to manage your heart condition.
A pacemaker can help regulate your heart rate and an ICD can help prevent cardiac arrest, but these devices do not cure the underlying condition that caused you to need them. That's why you still must stick to your overall treatment plan, which may include getting checkups, taking medicines as prescribed and following a heart-healthy lifestyle.
Learn how your device works (and how to maintain it).
Your doctor will give you instructions about how your device works and what to expect. In addition, you'll need to have the device checked periodically to ensure that it's functioning well and that the battery is healthy. Be sure to keep all your maintenance appointments.
Talk to your doctor about any lifestyle restrictions.
Having an ICD or a pacemaker probably won't limit how you live your life. For example, you can enjoy many forms of physical activity and sports. Some activities, like full-contact sports, may damage an ICD though. So check with your doctor about safe activities.
Similarly, ask your doctor when it's safe for you to drive again.
Be aware of devices that may cause interference.
Devices that emit magnetic or electrical fields—such as cellphones, headphones and airport metal detectors—might interfere with ICDs and pacemakers. This risk is generally low. But you can play it safe by keeping your distance. For instance:
- Hold your cellphone to your ear opposite your implant. Or use the speakerphone mode.
- Keep headphones at least 6 inches away from your device.
- Tell security personnel at airports or other venues with metal detectors about your device.
Carry a medical alert ID card.
In an emergency, your ID card would let medical responders know you have an implant if you aren't able to tell them. They need to know that to give you the right care. You may also want to consider getting a medical ID bracelet or necklace.
Know when to call your doctor.
Call your doctor right away if you suspect any kind of problem with your device or if you notice signs of an infection, such as fever, chills, pain or redness over your implant site.
Signs that an ICD may not be working properly include fainting, dizziness, breathlessness and heart palpitations.
Test your knowledge of heart arrythmias by taking a quick true or false quiz.
Sources
- American Heart Association. "Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)." https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/prevention--treatment-of-arrhythmia/implantable-cardioverter-defibrillator-icd.
- American Heart Association. "Living with Your Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)." https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/prevention--treatment-of-arrhythmia/living-with-your-implantable-cardioverter-defibrillator-icd.
- American Heart Association. "Living with Your Pacemaker." https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/prevention--treatment-of-arrhythmia/living-with-your-pacemaker.
- American Heart Association. "Pacemaker." https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/prevention--treatment-of-arrhythmia/pacemaker.
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. "Living With a Defibrillator." https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/defibrillators/living-with.
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. "Living with a Pacemaker." https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/pacemakers/living-with.
Our Cardiology Team
Our team of experienced cardiology care providers, echocardiography technicians, nuclear medicine technologist, respiratory therapy technicians and highly skilled support staff work together to provide you with the best possible care. Whether you're managing high blood pressure, recovering from a heart attack or addressing more complex cardiac issues, we are here to help you regain control of your health.
Our respiratory care team also specializes in cardiac services to help monitor and manage your heart health. View our Respiratory Care service page for more information.
Comprehensive Cardiology Services
We specialize in the diagnosis, treatment and management of a wide range of cardiovascular conditions, including:
- Heart failure and coronary artery disease: Get expert care tailored to your specific heart condition.
- Hypertension and cholesterol management: Control risk factors for heart disease and stroke with our targeted treatment plans.
- Vascular diseases: We treat a variety of vascular conditions, including those affecting the aorta and extremities, and provide support after heart attacks.
- Heart valve abnormalities and arrhythmias: Comprehensive care for valve issues and irregular heart rhythms, including atrial fibrillation and ventricular arrhythmias.
- Cardiac device management: Our clinic monitors and manages pacemakers, defibrillators and loop recorders to ensure optimal heart function.
- Advanced diagnostic testing: We offer echocardiography, stress tests, nuclear cardiology, EKGs, ultrasounds and CT scans to precisely diagnose your condition.
Seamless Heart Care, Wherever You Are
If you experience an acute coronary event, our cardiology team is prepared to coordinate your care. We work closely with other hospitals in the region to arrange transfers when necessary, ensuring you have a smooth transition from one facility to another. No matter where you're treated, you can trust that the GRH Cardiology team will be with you every step of the way, providing compassionate care and coordinating follow-up services for your recovery.
Is it Time to Visit GRH Cardiology Clinic?
Your heart health is vital. Here are the signs that you should consider scheduling an appointment:
- Referral by your primary care provider.
- New or worsening symptoms, such as chest pain, irregular heartbeat, high cholesterol or elevated blood pressure.
- Personal or family history of heart disease. If you've experienced heart disease or heart failure or have a family history of cardiovascular disease, it's time to be proactive about your heart health.
Trust GRH Cardiology Clinic for Your Heart Health
When it comes to your heart, you deserve expert care that is compassionate, close to home and tailored to your needs. At GRH Cardiology Clinic, we’re here for you—providing high-quality, patient-focused cardiovascular care you can trust.