A pacemaker is a small, implanted medical device that regulates the heart’s rhythm. It generates electrical pulses delivered to one or more chambers of the heart through thin wires called leads. These pulses stimulate the heart muscle, ensuring it contracts and pumps blood effectively throughout the body when the heart’s natural electrical system malfunctions.
Understanding Heart Rhythm Issues
The heart’s rhythm is controlled by electrical signals that originate in the sinoatrial (SA) node, often called the heart’s natural pacemaker. These signals travel through specific pathways, prompting the heart’s chambers to contract in a coordinated manner. When this electrical system malfunctions, it can lead to abnormal heart rhythms, known as arrhythmias.
One common issue requiring a pacemaker is bradycardia, where the heart beats too slowly, fewer than 60 beats per minute (BPM). This can occur if the SA node doesn’t fire impulses reliably or if there’s a problem with the electrical pathways. Another related condition is heart block, which involves an obstruction in the electrical conduction system where signals from the upper chambers (atria) are delayed or completely blocked from reaching the lower chambers (ventricles). This interference can cause the ventricles to beat much slower than normal, impacting blood circulation.
Common Signs and Symptoms
When the heart beats too slowly or irregularly due to conditions like bradycardia or heart block, it may not pump enough oxygen-rich blood to the body’s organs and tissues. This inadequate blood flow can manifest in several noticeable symptoms. Recognizing these signs can help individuals seek timely medical evaluation.
Dizziness or lightheadedness is a frequent symptom, occurring because the brain is not receiving sufficient blood flow. This sensation might be occasional or become more constant, sometimes appearing when standing up quickly or during physical activity. Fainting, also known as syncope, is another clear indicator of a very slow heartbeat, as a drop in blood flow to the brain causes a temporary loss of consciousness.
Extreme fatigue and general weakness are common complaints, as reduced blood circulation means muscles and organs do not receive enough oxygen to function efficiently. Even simple daily tasks like walking or climbing stairs might feel exhausting. Shortness of breath can also develop, particularly during physical activity, because the heart cannot pump blood fast enough to meet the body’s oxygen demands. This can feel like being winded or having a tight chest with minimal exertion.
Chest pain or discomfort, sometimes described as angina, may also occur. This pain arises when the heart muscle isn’t receiving enough oxygen-rich blood. Additionally, some individuals may experience mental confusion or memory problems due to the brain being deprived of adequate oxygen.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you experience any of the signs and symptoms discussed, especially if they are severe, persistent, or worsen over time, consult a healthcare professional promptly. While some causes of a slow heart rate may be benign, a slow heart rate accompanied by symptoms indicates an underlying medical issue that requires evaluation. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more serious complications like chronic fatigue, recurrent fainting, or cardiac arrest.
A doctor will typically begin by taking a thorough medical history and performing a physical examination.
To diagnose heart rhythm problems, specific diagnostic tests are often utilized. An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) records the heart’s electrical activity and can detect arrhythmias. For intermittent symptoms, a Holter monitor, a portable device worn for 24 to 48 hours, continuously records heart activity to capture irregularities that might not appear during a short office visit. Event recorders can be worn for longer periods, up to 30 days, and are activated by the patient when symptoms occur. Professional medical evaluation determines the appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan.