Ashsheefa Hospital

Pacemakers

Steady Beat: A Complete Guide To Pacemakers

A marvel of nature, the human heart tirelessly pumps blood throughout our bodies to sustain life. However, sometimes, this intricate rhythm falters. In such cases, tiny technological marvels named pacemakers step in to ensure steady and healthy heartbeats.

Pacemakers are small electrical devices that are placed in the chest or abdomen by surgery to support the electrical system in the heart. They can stabilize abnormal heart rhythms and prevent problems that may disrupt or endanger life.

According to the best pacemaker surgeon in Kolkata, the most common reason that people get a pacemaker is in case their heart beats too slowly or it pauses. This may cause faint spells or other symptoms too.

Why pacemakers Are Crucial

Electrical signals travel through the heart, causing it to contract and pump blood. A normal heart rhythm originates in the heart’s natural pacemaker which is known as the sinoatrial node (SA node). Various factors can cause disruptions;

  • Bradycardia: A heart rate below 60 beats per minute is considered a slow heart rate. It can cause fatigue, fainting, or dizziness.
  • Tachycardia: A heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute is a rapid heart rate. It can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations.
  • Fibrillation: Disorganised heartbeats may prevent the heart from pumping blood effectively.

If you witness any of these factors, do inquire about pacemaker implantation cost in Kolkata.

Warning Signs That You Might Need A Pacemaker

If you are witnessing these symptoms, understand you need to talk to your healthcare provider about your concerns or symptoms. Here are a few symptoms that you should take seriously;

  • Any consistent pain in the chest should be taken seriously. Visit cardiologists to check if the pain is related to the
  • A faster heartbeat of 100 beats per minute is also a cause of concern. A fluttering or racing sensation in your chest is a common indication of irregular heartbeats.
  • The best pacemaker surgeon in Kolkata advised that difficulty in breathing caused due to minimal activity should not be ignored. This can also occur if the heart is not pumping sufficient oxygenated blood.
  • Fainting spells without a clear trigger is also a cause of concern. This can be caused due to severely disrupted heart rhythm.

Remember! These are just potential signs and the presence of one or more of these does not necessarily imply that you need a pacemaker. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, consult a doctor for proper diagnosis. Discuss potential treatment options and pacemakers and if necessary inquire about pacemaker implantation cost in Kolkata.

Types Of Pacemakers

Pacemakers come in various configurations to address the different arrhythmia types. Ask your doctor about the Pacemaker surgery cost in Kolkata if you have been advised to get one.

  • Single-chamber pacemakers are used for bradycardia. It monitors and paces one heart chamber and usually the right ventricle.
  • Dual-chamber pacemakers monitor and pace both ventricles and coordinate contractions for improved pumping efficiency.
  • Biventricular ICD is similar to a dual-chamber pacemaker. However, it comes with additional pacing capabilities for both ventricles. It is advisable for patients with heart failure.
  • Wireless pacemakers are based on the latest technology that eliminates the need for leads and transmits signals wirelessly within the body.

Pacemaker implantation is a safe procedure performed by cardiologists under local anesthesia. Patients can often return to their regular activities after the surgery. While pacemakers have genuinely improved in the past decade, the best pacemaker surgeon in Kolkata at Ashsheefa Hospital advises to consult a doctor to know more about this medical device and which one is suitable for the patient.

It is also advised that proper monitoring and care are essential to ensure the proper functioning of this medical device and effective management of heart health.