A human heart is extremely important to keep the body functioning. It is also one of the most hardworking organs in the human body. A healthy heartbeat is a sign that your body is healthy. The human heart ensures a constant flow of oxygenated blood throughout the body, which is the fuel to keep the tissues and organs to keep functioning properly. However, what occurs if your heartbeat becomes abnormal? This condition is called arrhythmia, which is often concerning.
What is arrhythmia?
The heart is a complex muscular organ with its own electrical system. Electrical signals coordinate the contraction and relaxation of the heart chambers, which ensures a regular pumping of the heart. Arrhythmias occur when these electrical signals do not function properly, it can lead to an irregular heartbeat.
What are the types of arrhythmias?
There are several types of arrhythmias that is commonly reported, they include:
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Brachycardia:
A slow heart rate, typically below 60 beats per minute.
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Tachycardia:
A fast heartbeat, which beats more than 100 beats per minute.
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Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs):
Extra heartbeats originating from the lower chambers of the ventricles.
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Atrial fibrillation (AFib):
Irregular and rapid heartbeats that develop from the upper chambers called the atria.
What are the signs of an irregular heartbeat?
Depending on the type of arrhythmia and the severity of the condition the symptoms may differ from person to person. Few common symptoms of arrhythmia can include:
- Frequent fainting
- Dizziness
- Discomfort in the chest
- Severe fatigue
- Heart palpitations
If you are someone who experiences the mentioned symptoms on a regular basis, immediately reach out to the pacemaker treatment in Coimbatore to find the expert care.
What are the common causes of arrhythmias?
There are several causes of arrhythmias, few common ones include:
- Coronary artery diseases
- Disorders of the valve
- Experiencing an injury during a heart attack
- High blood pressure
- Genetically acquired tissue damage
Along with the mentioned causes, the most common cause of arrhythmias is an issue or defect in the heart valves or tissues.
When is a pacemaker necessary?
Pacemakers are not a single solution for all types of arrhythmias. They are primarily used for brachycardia and only certain types of slow heart rhythm disorders.
How does a pacemaker work?
- A pacemaker is a small, battery,-powered device that is implanted in your chest
- It consists of a pulse generator containing a battery and a computer chip, and one or more leads with electrodes that are placed near the heart chambers.
- The pacemaker continuously monitors the heart rate.
- If the heart rate falls below the normal level, the pacemaker sends tiny electrical impulses through the leads to stimulate the heart muscle and restore a normal rhythm.
A heart arrhythmia pacemaker doesn’t directly “correct” the underlying electrical problem causing the arrhythmia. Instead, it acts as a backup system, ensuring a regular heartbeat and sufficient blood flow when the heart’s natural electrical signals alter.
How pacemakers help other types of arrhythmias?
While pacemakers are effective for brachycardia, they may not be the first line of treatment for all arrhythmias. Here’s a breakdown of how pacemakers fit into the treatment plan for different heart rhythm issues:
Tachycardia:
Medications, ablation procedures (destroying a small area of heart causing abnormal electrical signals), or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) are often used to treat fast heart rhythms. Some pacemakers can also be programmed to deliver low-energy electrical pulses to address specific types of tachycardia.
PVCs:
Medications or lifestyle changes are often the first line of treatment for PVCs. Pacemakers are typically not used unless the PVCs are frequent and cause significant symptoms.
AFib:
Medications and lifestyle modifications are the foundation of AFib treatment. Ablation procedures or specific types of pacemakers with advanced features might be used in some cases.
What are the types of pacemakers that may be recommended?
Depending on the type of the condition and the severity, the use of pacemaker in the heart is recommended to suit your requirement. They include:
Single chamber pacemaker:
This type of pacemaker carries electrical signals to the right ventricle of the heart.
Dual chamber pacemaker:
This type of pacemaker carries electrical signals to the right ventricle and atrium as it helps to control the timing of the contractions in the heart chambers.
Biventricular pacemaker:
A pacemaker for a patient with irregular heartbeat or heart failure. It increases heart rate by stimulating the heart’s two lower chambers.
What are the benefits of pacemaker therapy?
For individuals with bradycardia or slow heart rhythm disorders, pacemakers offer a significant improvement in quality of life. Here are some key benefits of pacemakers:
Reduced symptoms:
Pacemakers can help reduce the symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath caused by a slow heart rate.
Improved blood flow:
A regular heartbeat ensures sufficient blood flow to vital organs.
Increased activity levels:
With improved symptoms and a steadier heart rhythm, individuals with pacemakers can often enjoy a more active lifestyle.
Enhanced overall wellbeing:
Pacemaker therapy can contribute to a better overall sense of well being and a reduced risk of complications associated with slow heart rhythms.
Is arrhythmia a serious condition?
The way your heart beats can be impacted by irregular heartbeat and improper firing of the heart’s normal signals. Your entire body may be negatively impacted by this. These irregular heartbeats can be managed and treated if discovered early. Your heart can suffer greater harm from an arrhythmia the longer it is left untreated.
Can you have an irregular heart rate with pacemaker?
When you have an irregular heartbeat or an arrhythmia, pacemakers are recommended to stabilize them. Once a pacemaker is implanted it helps regulate your heartbeat.
Important Takeaway:
Modern pacemakers are small and lightweight, allowing individuals to live active lives with minimal restrictions. Regular follow-up appointments with your doctor are crucial to ensure the pacemaker is functioning properly and is meeting your needs. Consult the best cardiologist hospital in Coimbatore to restore normal heart function by the expert’s treatment.
