Monday 21 November 2016

Everything that You Need to Know About Pacemakers

If your age is above forty and you lead a sedentary life, then it is essential to get a thorough physical check-up done. Sometimes, heavy smoking, drinking, stressful life and unhealthy eating styles can lead to heart problems. Additionally, if you have been experiencing shortness of breath then too, you need to consult a cardiologist. The heart specialist will be able to identify the root cause of the problem and provide treatment accordingly. One of the common diagnosis to prevent heart failures is placing of pacemakers. However, a cardiologist will suggest this course of treatment only if you are suffering from irregular heartbeats.

What is a Pacemaker?

A pacemaker is primarily a machine that ensures that your heart beats are regular. According to the Jaipur best pacemaker physician, it is an electronic device that is placed under the skin near your heart, to regulate your heart beat. If for some reason, the electrical impulses are not carried through your heart properly, then the heartbeat will be irregular. This can lead to palpitations, shortness of breath and in extreme cases heart attacks. By placing a pacemaker this can be prevented and an arrhythmic heart can be rectified.

What are the Essential Features of a Pacemaker?

Some of the characteristics of pacemakers are as follows:

  • Parts of a Pacemaker: A pacemaker primarily consists of a generator and two lead wires that send electrical signals back and forth from the heart. According to the pacemaker physicians, the common misconception about pacemakers is that it takes over the work of the heart. However, it does no such thing; all a pacemaker does is to ensure that the heart beats at regular intervals.
  • The Activity of a Pacemaker: The primary activity of a pacemaker is to transfer the electrical signals within the heart. The pacemaker monitors the electrical impulses in the heart. This ensures that there is no chance of infarction due to sudden surge of electrical impulse or the lack of it.
  • Lifespan of Pacemakers: Usually, pacemakers do not need to be replaced in the lifetime of the patient. All one needs to do is replace the battery of the pacemaker at regular intervals. With recent development in this technology, pacemakers with rechargeable batteries are also available.
The pacemaker is an essential device designed to ensure the good health of the patient. Additionally, it is also important to reduce chances of myocardial infarction is patients suffering from heart problems.

How to Take Care of a Pacemaker?

Although the device is placed within the body of the patient, it is essential to follow certain basic norms, to ensure the longevity of the device. Some of the steps that you should take to care for the pacemaker are as follows:
  • Ensure that you take all the medications prescribed by the cardiologist regularly.
  • According to pacemaker physicians, a person who has recently undergone a pacemaker treatment must avoid stressful situations. The body needs to adjust to the new device and hence, it is essential to avoid stress to help your heart work normally.
  • You must avoid electrical and electronic devices such as mobile phones, smartphones and tablets. These devices can interfere with the signals being sent by the pacemaker.
Thus, with proper care and by following the treatment designed by your cardiologist, you can ensure the longevity of the pacemaker and better health of your heart.