A pacemaker is a medical device that is inserted into the body in order to regulate abnormal heart rhythms. Pacemakers exert their therapeutic effect by emitting a a low electrical current that stimulates the heart muscle to contract. There are five different types of pacemakers: unipolar, dual chamber, dual site atrial, biventricular an implantable cardioverter defibrillators. Pacemakers may be temporary or permanent, and are used for a number of cardiac conditions.
Persisting Symptomatic Bradycardia
Persisting symptomatic bradycardia is also known as sick sinus syndrome and according to Mayo Clinic is uncommon. Persisting symptomatic bradycardia is most likely to affect adults over the age of 70. In persisting symptomatic bradycardia, the sinus node, which is the heart's own pacemaker, works ineffectively resulting in a heart rate that is either too fast or too slow. According to Mayo Clinic, many people with persisting symptomatic bradycardia will eventually need a pacemaker to regulate the heart rhythm.
Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy is a disease in which the muscles of the heart become inflamed and cannot function properly. There are two forms of cardiomyopathy: hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and dilated cardiomyopathy. According to a 1999 article published in "Circulation," lead author Dr. Robert O'Rourke states that both hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and dilated cardiomyopathy may benefit from a pacemaker. "Dual-chamber pacing has relieved symptoms and improved hemodynamics in certain patients. However, pacing techniques should be used as a therapeutic approach to individual patients rather than as routine therapy for most patients with cardiomyopathies," says Dr. O' Rourke.
Atrial Fibrillation
According to the Atrial Fibrillation Association, atrial fibrillation is the most common heart rhythm disturbance. Atrial fibrillation occurs when abnormal electrical activity develops in the atria of the heart, and takes over from the sinus node, which is the heart's natural pacemaker. As a result, the atria beat in a disorganized manner which means the heart pumps blood inefficiently. A pacemaker will help regulate the heart rhythm, thus stimulating the heart to speed up when it beats too slowly or slow the rate when the heart beats too quickly.
Tachycardia
Tachycardia, also sometimes refered to as tachyarrythmia, occurs when the heart beats too quickly. Individuals experiencing tachycardia may experience up to 400 heat beats per minute.Tachycardia can affect either the upper or lower heart chambers and disrupts the normal functioning of the heart. According to Mayo Clinic, tachycardia can cause cardiac arrest, increase the risk of stroke, or may even result in death. Although treatments are available to help control a rapid heart rate, a physician may recommend implanting a pacemaker to restore the normal functioning of the heart.
References
- Patient UK: Pacemakers and Pacing
- Mayo Clinic: Sick sinus syndrome
- Circulation: Cardiac Pacing: An Alternative Treatment for Selected Patients With Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy and Adjunctive Therapy for Certain Patients With Dilated Cardiomyopathy
- Atrial Fibillation Association:What is atrial fibrillation?
- Mayo Clinic: Tachycardia
