Over the course of a lifetime, we become accustomed to the feeling of the regular and consistent rhythm of our heart when we place a hand on our chest. Unfortunately, in many situations, that consistency can be interrupted. In these cases, many doctors turn to a device called a pacemaker.
The Facts
A pacemaker is a small battery-operated device that helps the heart to beat in a regular rhythm. The device, about 1-1/2 inches in diameter, consists of wires or leads and a generator. The device uses electrical impulses to prompt the heart to beat at its normal rate. Many pacemakers have a sensing mode to prevent them from sending impulses when the heart beating normally.
Function
The function of the pacemaker is directly related to the natural process of the heart. The heart has its own internal electrical system, which stems from a group of cells called the sinus node. This controls the rhythm of our heartbeat. With every heartbeat, electrical signals spread from the top of the heart to the bottom. These signals cause the heart to contract and pump blood. When there is something wrong with the way this system is working, a pacemaker's sensors detects the abnormal variation and kicks in with an electrical impulse to restore normal speed and rhythm.
Purpose
Insufficient electrical signals in the heart can cause rhythm fluctuations called arrhythmia. Pacemakers correct this condition using low-level electrical pulses. Pacemakers are made to (among other things) help end abnormal rhythms, speed up slow heartbeats and coordinate electrical signals between different sections of the heart.
Types
Pacemakers can be temporary or permanent, according to National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. Temporary pacemakers are used in cases where the problem itself may be temporary, such as after heart surgery or a medicine overdose. Doctors choose from numerous manufacturers, makes, and models, but each make and model has the same general function: to restore the normal rhythm of the heart. They mostly vary in terms of efficiency, like weight and battery life.
Considerations
Your doctor may recommend a pacemaker for several different reasons. The most common of these are that your heartbeat is too slow and irregular or that your heartbeat goes from normal to being too fast or too slow. In more extreme cases where a more permanent solution is required, your doctor may choose to treat arrhythmias with another type of pacemaker called a ICD or implantable cardioverter defibrillator.
Tags: electrical signals, cases where, heart beat, restore normal, rhythm heart