The heartbeat is one of the first signs of life detected in humans while still in the womb. The consistent rhythmic heartbeat signifies the motion of blood being pumped from the heart chambers into other areas of the body, providing oxygen and nutrients necessary for life. Sometimes the heartbeat becomes irregular and a pacemaker is needed to maintain a healthy rhythm.
The conductive system is the heart's electrical system and is responsible for maintaining the precise contractions needed to pump blood effectively. The electrical impulses produced by the conductive system originate in the sinus node, also called the sinoatrial (SA). As a natural pacemaker, the sinus node initiates the electrical signaling that communicates with the right and left atriums of the upper chambers in the heart. When the conduction system fails to provide the correct electrical signals, arrhythmias, or irregular heart beats, may develop and interfere with the heart's ability to pump an adequate supply of blood. Some arrhythmias called bradyarrhythmia cause extremely slow heartbeats and may warrant the use of a pacemaker to regulate heartbeat and subsequent blood flow throughout the body.
Arrhythmia Symptoms
Symptoms of arrhythmia include:
- Heart palpitations
- Lightheadedness and dizziness
- Fainting
- Extreme fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Confusion
While normal aging may be responsible for the onset of arrhythmias, genetic abnormalities and congenital heart defects are responsible for arrhythmias in younger, otherwise healthy individuals. Other underlying causes include:
- Scar tissue in the heart muscle from previous heart attack
- Coronary heart disease
- Nervous system disorders
- Cardiomyopathies
- Certain medications that alter heart rhythm
Arrhythmias are corrected with artificial pacemakers implanted close to the heart that produce electrical impulses. Millions of people around the world live with pacemakers and each year more than 600,000 new cases of bradycardia-related arrhythmias are treated with pacemakers.
Questions and Answers
Although pacemakers have been used for decades, they are still widely misunderstood. The questions and answers below will hopefully dispel any myths surrounding the use of pacemakers.
Q: Is it dangerous to get a pacemaker?
A: The procedure only requires minor surgery and is usually free from complications. Because only local numbing is used, recovery time is minimal, usually 48 hours or less.
Q: Is the pacemaker placed directly inside the heart.
A: The main body of the pacemaker, which comprises the bulk of the device, is called the pulse generator and is placed under the skin below the collar bone. An insulated wire, sometimes two wires, runs from the pulse generator into the heart chamber via a large vein.
Q: Will my pacemaker be noticeable to others?
A: The pacemaker only causes a small raised area at the site of implantation and most people will never know you have a pacemaker.
Q: Can you feel the pacemaker under the skin?
A: Immediately after the pacemaker is implanted, there may be some inflammation and soreness which may make you more aware of the device. However, with time, most people don't feel anything as the pacemaker is almost flush with the skin.
Q: Can I use a cell phone if I have a pacemaker?
A: Cell phone use is usually safe but your doctor may recommend that you use a landline. If you must use a cell phone, it's recommended that you place the phone as far away from the pacemaker as possible. Use earphones or place the phone on the side of the head opposite of the pacemaker.
Q: Can I go through the metal detector during screening at the airport when I travel?
A: Metal detectors may sound off when you pass through but should not interfere with the function of the pacemaker. Alternate screening methods may be available to you if you show medical proof of a pacemaker.
Q: Can I still use my laptop or tablet if I wear a pacemaker?
A: Yes, however, you should never hold your devices directly against your chest.
Q: What happens if the battery dies in my pacemaker?
A: The battery is self-monitoring and communicates with your medical provider via a computer chip. If your battery needs to be replaced, your doctor will most likely fit you with a new pacemaker.