A pacemaker functions by normalizing the heart rhythm and improves the quality of life. The device is recommended for individuals with fluctuating grades of cardiac distress, thus the benefits tend to vary.
Pacemakers are small-sized electronic devices that are implanted via surgery within the upper chest. It has the main purpose to monitor the heart function and if needed, generate an electrical signal that is transmitted to the heart and stabilize an erratic heartbeat.
Normal sinus rhythm
The main benefit of a pacemaker is to establish the normal sinus rhythm or heartbeat. The device mimics the natural sinus rhythm of the heart.
It can also determine the normal, resting heart rate of the individual and ascertain if acceleration in that rate is due to an increase in activity or an issue with pacing.
In case there is a pacing issue, the device establishes atrioventricular synchrony which is the normal course of delivering blood by tightening the atria and ventricles.
Symptom relief
There are 3 conditions in which the doctor might suggest a pacemaker – fast heart rate, slow heart rate and arrhythmia. Each of these conditions has the same basic signs of dizziness, shortness of breath, fainting, chest pain and generalized fatigue.
Remember that the device will not get rid of all these symptoms but by steadying the heart rhythm, these symptoms can be alleviated.
Quality of life
A pacemaker can help improve the quality of life. Most experienced a significant improvement in their quality of life after surgery especially with physical activity. Individuals below the age of 75 had improved quality of life.
Diminished mortality
The biventricular pacemakers are utilized for cases involving heart failure. A pacemaker that is accompanied by an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator is a highly effective combination. Both can prevent sudden death by transmitting an electrical shock to the heart if an erratic heart rhythm is perceived.