Can I carry camera gear with a pacemaker?

[snwj]

R5/100-500 with monopod or tripod.....getting a pacemaker on left side of chest, just wondering if I can still comfortable use my left shoulder to carry equip into the field  ?? any one else in this situation ?

[SamanthaW]

Hi there!

Thanks for posting that gorgeous falcon (I think?)! I hope your pacemaker surgery goes well and that you have a speedy recovery. Please be sure to include your doctor in this decision, as our community members may have experience, but a doctor will be able to remind you of safety concerns from their perspective! 

Good luck! ❤️

[snwj]

of course not looking for medical advice, just if I may need to modify my padding or change shoulders, Thanks for your concern

[justadude]

"of course not looking for medical advice, just if I may need to modify my padding or change shoulders, Thanks for your concern"

I know you aren't looking for medical advice, but even these questions should be answered by your doctor.  Why ask us about something that could jeopardize your health?  He (or she) will have the best answers.  

Hope you have a speedy recovery! 

[Stephen]

Hello!
I apologize that you haven't gotten a firm answer on this. 
To date, only one camera product has been issued with an advisory regarding cardiac pacemakers: RF35mm F1.4 L VCM
This is what the advisory says:
This product emits low level magnetic flux. If you use an implantable cardiac pacemaker or other medical device and feel abnormalities, please keep away from this product and consult your doctor.

Should you have other questions, please don't hesitate to consult with support at 800-OK-CANON 800-652-2666 weekdays from 9am to 6pm (ET).

[Tintype_18]

Ask your doctor.

[stevet1]

snwj,

The short answer to your question is no. Pacemakers were designed to regulate your heartbeat, they weren't designed to carry camera gear. 😀😀.

Seriously though, do as the others have suggested and talk to your doctor. He or she can tell you how much stress you can put on your heart, and what kind of electrical devices you should stay away from.

I hope all goes well with you.

Nice photo, by the way.

Steve Thomas

[Stephen]

HAHAHA! 

[redshiner · Accepted solution]

Your question seems to be about comfort and not about interference with pacemaker. Mine is under my left clavicle. I carry the 200-800 mm lens on various straps. No problems. In fact I'm not aware of my pacemaker unless I rub my hand across the area. Go get'em.

[Stephen]

That is great insight!

My mom had a pacemaker - she was told she wouldn't feel it or even notice it was there, and on average people that would have been true. My mom was 4 foot 11 inches tall and barely weighed 100 lbs when she got the pacemaker. She said it didn't hurt at all, but she could see it under her skin - she had no extra "meat" to bury the device in. 

All this to say: 
Don't worry about it. Live your life. Get out there and take all the pictures of your world and enjoy every single second!