What exactly does a pacemaker do?
What exactly does a pacemaker do?
A pacemaker signals the heart to beat when the heartbeat is too slow or irregular. A pulse generator is a small metal case that contains electronic circuitry with a small computer and a battery that regulate the impulses sent to the heart.
What are the disadvantages of having a pacemaker?
Risks
- Infection near the site in the heart where the device is implanted.
- Swelling, bruising or bleeding at the pacemaker site, especially if you take blood thinners.
- Blood clots (thromboembolism) near the pacemaker site.
- Damage to blood vessels or nerves near the pacemaker.
- Collapsed lung (pneumothorax)
What are the disadvantages of a pacemaker?
Risks
- Infection near the site in the heart where the device is implanted.
- Swelling, bruising or bleeding at the pacemaker site, especially if you take blood thinners.
- Blood clots (thromboembolism) near the pacemaker site.
- Damage to blood vessels or nerves near the pacemaker.
- Collapsed lung (pneumothorax)
Who makes the best pacemakers?
- Medtronic is the larger company so they will have more reps, esp if you are in a remote area. Boston has had the most recalls, but not recently. Ask your dr what his recommendation is since he'll be the one programming your device. I find it odd when drs leave it up to us.
What is the life expectancy of a person with a pacemaker?
- The average life expectancy og pacemaker is about 10 years. Pacemaker can last for 15 years or longer depending on frequency of use and few other factors that may cause unnecessary discharge of electric power.
What are the pros and cons of a pacemaker?
- Sometimes the impulses your pacemaker sends to your heart can cause discomfort. You may be dizzy, or feel a throbbing in your neck. Once you have one put in, you might have to keep your distance from objects that give off a strong magnetic field, because they could affect the electrical signals from your pacemaker.
