PacemakerA pacemaker is a small organ located inside the heart that sends electrical impulses that causes the heart to beat regularly. This organ is called the sinoatrial node (SA node) or sinus node and it is located at the top of the right atrium. If the SA node fails, it needs to be fixed right away or else the person experiencing the problem is at high risk of having serious complications even death. When the heart rate drops to dangerous levels, your Doctor may want you to have a pacemaker implanted. This device is about the size of a wrist watch and it will help you regulate your heart rate. It will make your heart rate beat normally and will make you feel better. Most of them work all the time and others work only when they are needed. They are generally composed of 2 parts: There are 2 kinds of pace makers: People who have had one implanted will have a small bump on that area of the chest. The procedure is done in the Hospital and takes about one hour to complete. Patients are usually discharged the next day. The incision is small and you will experience some pain after the procedure. Your Doctor will prescribe pain medications to help control your pain. Pacemakers are small and they weigh about an ounce or 30 grams and they last about 10 years and they will be checked by your Doctor on a regular basis. A booklet will be given to you after you are discharged from the Hospital. Make sure you read it, learn as much as you can, and make sure you follow your Doctors recommendations. Heart Attacks are the number one killer in America. Make it your goal in life to prevent a heart attack in the future. Start paying attention to your daily habits such as diet, exercise, stress, smoking, alcohol, and drugs. Practicing good habits on an ongoing basis will help you lead a future healthy life.
Return from pacemakers to cardiac tests
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