Pacemakers correct abnormal heart rates and can even save your life. If you need a pacemaker, it’s important to have a leading cardiovascular specialist performing the procedure and monitoring your heart going forward. At HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, with locations in Hamden, East Haven, North Haven, West Haven, and Wallingford, Connecticut, a team of leading heart specialists are waiting to help with your pacemaker. Book your appointment online or by phone today.
A pacemaker is a small implant that your HeartCare Associates of Connecticut cardiologist places under your skin in your chest or abdomen during a minor surgical procedure. Your pacemaker normalizes irregular heart rhythm by sending small electrical impulses to your heart.
Pacemakers treat abnormal heart rhythm, which is known as arrhythmia. Your cardiologist might recommend a pacemaker If you have a:
If you think you may need a pacemaker, talk to your cardiologist at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut.
Many different things can cause an abnormal heart rate. Some common causes of arrhythmia include:
Normal aging can cause bradycardia.
A heart attack can leave your heart muscle badly damaged, causing arrhythmia.
Genetic conditions like long QT syndrome, short QT syndrome, and Brugada syndrome can cause arrhythmia from an early age.
Certain medications, such as bronchodilators, antipsychotics, digoxin, and gastrointestinal stimulants, can trigger arrhythmia. If you need to take the medication long-term for health reasons, you might need a pacemaker.
Regardless of the reason for your arrhythmia, a pacemaker could be the best way to normalize your heart rate.
Most pacemakers are permanent. However, in some situations, like arrhythmia caused by a heart attack or a medication overdose, the problem might resolve on its own in time, so you may only need a temporary pacemaker. Temporary pacemakers are typically used for only a few days and only in a hospital setting.
You typically visit your HeartCare Associates of Connecticut cardiologist several times a year for a pacemaker checkup. These checkups are important in guarding against malfunctions like dislodged wires, battery failure, or electrical signaling problems.
Your cardiologist advises you regarding the best ways to protect your pacemaker and prevent its malfunction.
Usually, this includes avoiding extended contact with electrical or magnetic devices, so it’s important to always inform medical professionals that you have a pacemaker before tests like MRI in the future.
To learn more about how a pacemaker can restore your heartbeat, reach out to the HeartCare Associates of Connecticut team online or by phone today.