Can You Snorkel With An Implanted Defibrillator?

Implanted cardiac devices, such as pacemakers and cardioverter-defibrillators, are commonly used to treat arrhythmias that would otherwise be contraindications for recreational scuba diving. These devices have proven effective in primary prevention, particularly in cardiac ischaemic disease and other secondary causes of sudden cardiac arrest (SCD). An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is an electrical device that monitors the heart and can deliver an electric shock to correct life-threatening arrhythmia and prevent sudden cardiac arrest.

ICDs can help detect and stop irregular heartbeats, also known as arrhythmias, and can treat heart rhythm problems. However, diving with a pacemaker is generally not recommended due to the risk of drowning due to underwater electrical shock and other complications. Research and technological development have found that people with implanted pacemakers have no restrictions regarding swimming, bathing, or showering, except for the pacemaker itself.

The need for a cardiac defibrillator is a contraindication for diving, but it is implanted for those at high risk for cardiac arrest and shock if indicated. These devices are intended to prevent sudden cardiac arrest, but the heart itself may be in generally poor health, which is not compatible with these devices. Experts do not advise people with a pacemaker or implanted defibrillator to stay out of swimming pools or snorkeling depths. The pacemaker is implanted into the individual’s subcutaneous tissues, and healing time after surgery must be allowed for a minimum of six to eight weeks.