What is a Pacemaker?
A pacemaker is a small device that helps regulate the rate of your heart. It controls your heart rate with small electrical stimulations. Your doctor usually places this battery under the skin on your chest, below your collarbone. From here, the heart tissue is stimulated, usually with two (sometimes one, sometimes three) wires.
The pacemaker monitors your heartbeat and if it is too slow, it will increase your heart rate by sending electrical signals to your heart. In addition; Most pacemakers have sensors that detect body movement or breathing rate, which stimulates the pacemaker to increase your heart rate during exercise to meet your body's increased needs for blood and oxygen.
Do I Need a Pacemaker?
Except for temporary reasons;
- If your heart rate is too slow or fast
- If your heartbeat is irregular
- If the synchronous contraction of your heart's tissues is impaired, your doctor may recommend a pacemaker. .
But the reasons and timing may vary from patient to patient.
How is a Pacemaker Inserted?
Although the placement of a pacemaker varies from patient to patient, it is generally done with one patient. It can take between three hours. You will receive local anesthesia to numb the incision area. You will be awake during the procedure.
Your doctor will make a small incision near your shoulder. He or she will guide a small wire through the incision into a large vein near your collarbone. Then your doctor guides the wire through your vein and into your heart. An x-ray machine will guide your doctor through the procedure.
Using the wire, your surgeon connects an electrode to the right ventricle of the heart. The ventricle is the lower chamber of the heart. The other end of the cable is connected to the generator of the pacemaker. This includes the battery and electrical circuits. Typically, your surgeon will place the generator under your skin near the collarbone.
If a three-chamber pacemaker is being implanted, your doctor will add a second electrode to the right atrium of your heart and a third electrode to the left ventricle. The atrium is the upper chamber of the heart.
Finally, your surgeon will close your incision with stitches.
Daily Life with a Pacemaker
- Your doctor will check with you every three to six months. r will check your pacemaker
- The battery life of your pacemaker is generally 5 to 8 years. But this may vary depending on the battery type and the patient's condition. When the battery life is shortened, a new one can be installed with a minor surgical operation.
- Take your medicine as your doctor tells you.
- If you have difficulty breathing, swelling in your legs, dizziness, blackouts or fainting, consult your doctor. inform them.
- Carry an ID card stating that you have a pacemaker
- Tell your other doctors and dentist that you have a pacemaker. Some types of medical equipment affect the operation of a pacemaker.
- Tell airport and mall security that you have a pacemaker.
- Home microwaves, electrical appliances, and most office and light store equipment do not affect the operation of a pacemaker. .
- Talk to your doctor about the possible effects of industrial microwave ovens, electric cars, or other large motors.
- You can also use a cell phone, but only if:
- Put the phone on the side without the battery.
- Keep your phone away from the battery when it is on, for example, do not carry it in your breast pocket.
Most people with a pacemaker can lead a disability-free life. Your doctor will tell you which exercises you can do and for how long. Most batteries have programs that allow your heart rate to increase as you exercise. You can drive and have sex after the time determined by your doctor.
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