What are the signs you need a pacemaker?

Posted on September 16, 2022

In the United States, pacemaker implants have risen 56% over the past 20 years.Close up of a hand holding a pacemaker device.

This technology makes it possible for people with heart disease to live fuller, longer lives. While pacemakers are not a cure for heart disease, they provide effective relief for some of the more prominent symptoms and concerns associated with heart problems.

What exactly is a pacemaker?

Surgically implanted into your heart, this tiny device helps control your heartbeat. It contains specialized sensors that detect when your heart is beating too slow or too fast, then sends electrical signals to correct the issue.

There are three types of pacemakers: single chamber, dual chamber, and biventricular. Most modern devices are able to detect body motion and breathing rate to increase the heart rate during exercise.

Why do I need a pacemaker?

The primary reasons a pacemaker may be recommended are to:

  • Manage and improve symptoms associated with bradycardia, a slow heartbeat.
  • Treat chronic atrial fibrillation, highly chaotic and irregular heartbeats.
  • Prevent cardiac arrest, when your heart from stops beating altogether.

Will I need a pacemaker forever?

Depending on your specific heart concern, your pacemaker may be temporary or permanent. Sometimes temporary pacemakers are installed after surgery or following a heart attack but will be removed following a full recovery.

For more chronic problems, a permanent pacemaker provides long term treatment to correct irregular heartbeats that cause:

  • Extreme fatigue
  • Frequent feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Regular, unexplained fainting
  • Intense heart palpitations

Ultimately, you won’t know for sure if a pacemaker is right for you until you seek treatment.

Turn to The Medical Group of New Jersey for diagnosis and treatment of irregular heartbeat in New Jersey. Our dedicated physicians and healthcare providers provide quality care and medical advice to help you navigate your symptoms. Give us a call or visit our website to schedule an appointment!