What is a pacemaker?
A pacemaker is a small, battery-powered machine placed under the skin near the collarbone. It helps keep your heart beating regularly if it’s beating too slowly or irregularly.
Why might someone need a pacemaker?
You may need one if your heart beats too slowly, beats irregularly, or if you have heart failure. It helps your heart to maintain a normal rhythm and improves symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or fatigue.
How does a pacemaker work?
It sends tiny electrical signals to your heart to keep it beating properly. It only activates when your heart rhythm is off. Some pacemakers adjust automatically, like during exercise.
What are the different types of pacemakers?
Single-chamber: Sends signals to one heart chamber.
Dual-chamber: Sends signals to two chambers.
Biventricular (CRT): Helps both lower heart chambers beat together, mainly used for heart failure.
What is a leadless pacemaker?
Unlike traditional ones, leadless pacemakers don’t have wires. They are smaller and inserted directly into the heart through a vein using a thin tube.
Is surgery needed to get a pacemaker?
Yes. A pacemaker is typically implanted during a minor surgical procedure, often performed under local anesthesia. You may be awake but relaxed with medicine during the procedure.
How long does pacemaker surgery take?
It usually takes a few hours. You may stay in the hospital overnight and return home the next day if everything goes well.
What are the risks of getting a pacemaker?
Complications are rare. However, some patients may experience infection, bleeding, blood clots, or device movement. Serious issues like damage to the heart or lungs are very uncommon.
How should I prepare before pacemaker surgery?
You may need heart tests, such as an ECG, Holter monitor, echocardiogram, or stress test, to check your heart rhythm and determine if a pacemaker is right for you.
What should I expect after surgery?
You might feel sore for a few days. Avoid lifting heavy objects. Do not engage in intense exercise for about a month. Your doctor will tell you how to care for the area.
Can I use my mobile phone and go through security with a pacemaker?
Yes, but keep phones at least 6 inches away from your pacemaker. Avoid placing it in a shirt pocket. At airports, walk through security but don’t linger. Carry a pacemaker ID card.
What devices should I avoid with a pacemaker?
Stay at least 2 feet away from welding equipment, strong magnets, and high-voltage equipment. Inform doctors and dentists that you have a pacemaker, as some medical devices may interfere with it.
Will a pacemaker affect my daily life?
Most people can return to normal activities, including light exercise and work. A pacemaker often helps you feel better and more energetic by fixing abnormal heart rhythms.
How long does a pacemaker battery last?
The battery usually lasts between 5 and 15 years. When it runs low, another surgery is done to replace the generator, which is simpler than the first surgery.
How often should my pacemaker be checked?
Your pacemaker should be checked every 3 to 6 months. Many modern pacemakers can be monitored remotely, resulting in fewer hospital visits and allowing for quick updates to be sent to your doctor.
