Pacemaker
What is a pacemaker?
A pacemaker is another type of implantable cardiac device that monitors the heart to treat bradycardia (slow, irregular, or interrupted heartbeat). This is for patients without heart failure, who only suffer from bradycardia. The pacemaker sends out small, undetectable electrical signals to the heart to correct bradycardia and help restore the heart to a normal rate. Pacemakers only send out the pulses when your heart needs them – the rest of the time, they are waiting and watching.
How do I know I need a pacemaker? You need a pacemaker when your heart’s electrical conduction system malfunctions, causing your heart to beat too slowly. Sometimes, a slow heart rhythm may be discovered during a routine checkup visit, without your even knowing about it. Symptoms of bradycardia include lightheadedness, shortness of breath, fatigue, weakness, or fainting. Your doctor may prescribe you an electrocardiogram (ECG) to provide a graphic representation of your heart’s rhythm. Alternatively, your doctor may recommend a Holter monitor to record your heart’s rhythm over 24 hours.
You might need a standard pacemaker if:
- You have bradycardia (slow heartbeat)
- You have atrial fibrillation (when the upper chambers of the heart beat too quickly)
Where in the body are pacemakers implanted? How do they work?
The pulse generator component of the pacemaker is implanted in the upper chest, just below the skin near the collarbone. The pulse generator contains the battery and electronic circuitry that directs the battery to send electrical pulses through the leads, thereby stimulating the heart to beat at a normal rhythm. Leads are inserted through a vein and connect the pulse generator to the heart. These leads monitor your own heart rhythm and transmit this information to the generator, which adapts its responses to your heart’s specific needs. An external tabletop computer called a programmer allows your doctor to change your pacemaker settings without invasive surgery.
How long to pacemakers last?
Pacemakers last anywhere from 2 to 10 or more years; on average, they last about 6 years.
How big are pacemakers? Can I feel them “tick” inside me?
Today’s pacemakers are very small – many times less than 2 inches wide and a quarter-inch thick. Initially, after pacemaker is implanted in the body, you will be aware of it. However, this feeling will lessen with time; a pacemaker does not make sounds, so neither you nor anybody around you will hear it.
Can I still live an active lifestyle after pacemaker implantation?
Yes, typically, pacemaker patients can continue leading active lifestyles; you should be able to participate in most of the activities you participated in prior to receiving a pacemaker. However, your doctor may advise you about your limits.
Do I have to stay away from things like magnets, microwaves, and strobe lights?
Pacemakers cannot be damaged by using household appliances such as microwaves, electric blankets, and most power tools. Using electric arc welders or working on automobile ignition systems should not damage pacemakers, but there is the possibility that they may briefly interfere with proper pacemaker operation. Some medical equipment may interfere with pacemaker functioning. If you feel rapid, irregular heartbeats when operating or standing near any of this equipment, you should turn the equipment off or walk away from it, and this will allow for normal pacemaker operation.
Can I still use cell phones? Cell phones send electromagnetic signals, and this may interfere with proper pacemaker operation. Therefore, it is recommended that you do not carry your phone in a breast pocket over the pacemaker and that you do not hold your cell phone to the ear closest to your pacemaker.
Will pacemakers interfere with airport security devices? No. Pacemaker recipients can travel without restrictions.
How do I know if I need a new pacemaker? A pacemaker will give ample warning if its battery is low; in fact, most pacemaker systems will continue functioning normally for 3 to 6 months after the battery is signaling a low level.
Updated January 29, 2009 - MJ