If you or your family member has a pacemaker, you might already know about medical warnings about using certain electronic devices that can cause the pacemaker not to work functionally.
But, how about an electric razor? Can you use an electric razor with a pacemaker? This article will explain why electronic devices like electric razors can interfere with your pacemaker and what to do to use them safely!
Why Can Some Electronic Devices Cause Trouble to Pacemakers?
As electric appliances are used in our daily lives, pacemaker manufacturers have been trying to create pacemakers that can still work properly even under electromagnetic effects.
But, why do many electric appliances cause trouble with pacemakers in the first place?
Some electronic devices can interfere with the pacemaker’s function because of these devices’ strong Electromagnetic Interference (EMI.)
When the devices send wireless or electric signals, the electromagnetic fields existing around them can affect the way pacemakers work temporarily.
So, does it mean you need to stay away from all the electric appliances?
Not really. As the pacemakers are also made in a way that can resist weak or not-so-strong electromagnetic signals, they can still work well with them.
Experts say that appliances like hair dryers, microwave ovens, and electric blankets do not interfere with pacemakers’ function.
Many other products like MP3 players, cordless phones, and electric razors should not be placed next to and over the pacemakers.
When you have a pacemaker in your body, you will need to be aware of the electronic devices around you
Can You Use an Electric Razor with a Pacemaker?
The short answer is Yes, you can use an electric razor with a pacemaker. However, you need to pay close attention to the distances between the two.
As we shared in the last section, an electric razor is suggested not to be put near the pacemaker. Its electromagnetic field is measured to be strong enough to interfere with how the pacemaker works. It can cause the device to stop working temporarily.
So, how far should you keep the electric razor away from the pacemaker to keep it safe?
Many researchers have done several experiments. Many of them suggest that we keep the electric razor at least 6 inches away from the pacemakers.
Do not bring the electric razor closer to them than 6 inches because it can cause the pacemaker to temporarily stop working, work inaccurately, or even make the patient pass out.
According to Dr. Andreas Napp from Aachen University Hospital, at a distance of 12 inches, the electromagnetic field of an electric razor becomes weaker and can be used safely.
So, even though there is also research saying that 6 inches of distance is still okay, we think it is better to keep it 12 inches away.
Is it safe to use an electric shaver with a pacemaker?
How to Safely Use Electric Razors with a Pacemaker?
Keep Them at the Right Distance
The best way to safely use an electric razor with a pacemaker is to keep it at the right distance.
As we recommended earlier, you should keep the electric razor at least 6 inches, and it is even better to keep it around 12 inches away.
Remember to never put the electric razor near the pacemaker because it will easily cause problems for the heart device.
Turn off the Electric Razor (or Other Electronic Devices) If One Feels the Dizziness
If you or someone with a pacemaker feels the dizziness and spots an electric razor nearby, turn it off. You can also ask the person using the razor to either turn it off or walk further.
When using an electric shaver at the same time as a pacemaker, there are a few things to keep in mind
Buy Razors with Battery
Even though electric razors running by batteries can still send out electromagnetic interference, the interference is much weaker than those running by electricity.
For this reason, you can use battery electric razors instead as it causes significantly less harm at the same distance compared to regular electric razors.
Read Instructions from the Pacemaker’s Manufacturer
Different pacemakers from different manufacturers can react differently to the same electric device at the same distance. So, take the time to check the manufacturer’s websites, read the instructions, or even ask the manufacturer to understand your pacemaker better.
Ask Your Doctor Before Using an Electric Razor
One of the best things you can do to use an electric razor safely is to ask your doctor before using an electric razor.
They have worked in this field and might know similar cases related to electric appliances and pacemakers so that they can give you advice based on real-life observations.
Final Thoughts
So, can you use an electric razor with a pacemaker? Now that you know it is okay to use electric razors with a pacemaker, it is crucial to always keep a safe distance.
You will be fine when you follow all the guides and tips in this article, especially the safe distance. Until this point, there are no found risks when all of these instructions are applied.