@krb48 Let me comment on getting a ICD. My EP stated it is like having your own EMS in your chest. Whenever the need to treat a heart rypthm problem your ICD is there to treat you. Most will try to pace you out of the problem and if still needed with shock you.

Your 35 EF is not horrible. Mine is 20. So how bad is 20? I do Sprint Triathons and train for them 6 days a week. I have had many shocks since getting (on my third ICD/Pacemaker) and have started to see it as a blessing having the device in me to bring back my heart so quickly. My EP and heart failure doctors work very closely together (Mayo) to fine tune my ICD/Pacemaker and get the right doses of medications bests for me. We have also added supplements like Magnesium, co-Q-10.

I was told by cardiologist and EP that 30 EF was the threshold for getting a ICD. I hope you have been prescribed medication to help stop your heart failure from getting worse. I am on Entresto and Carvididol. My EF was getting worse every year until put on both these medications. I and cardiololgist hate the word heart failure. It is a terrible name for a heart condition that only means less heart function below the norm. I think reduced heart function is a better term. By the way I have had that condition since 2001.

Stay active. 30 years ago they would have told you to go home and rest. Now they say exercise to keep your heart and cardiovascular system strong. I have been an exerciser all my life. Now have recommended exercise please check with your cardiologist to see what is right amount for you.

It does take some time to adapt to getting a ICD (I have ICD/Pacemaker) and on my third one. But after a while you will not even know it is there unless you need it. And then your peace of mind is there as you have your own person EMS tech in your chest in case is needed other than waiting for EMS to arrive which can be pretty long. Your ICD will monitor your heart rympthm 24/7.

Good luck but do not hesitate getting the ICD it will much more or a positive than a negative for you quality of life and lessoning your anxiety.