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What is a Pacemaker? Understanding How It Helps Patients

A pacemaker is a small medical device implanted under the skin near the chest to help patients with slow or irregular heartbeats (bradycardia or heart block). It sends electrical signals to help the heart maintain a regular rate and rhythm, improving blood circulation and reducing symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, and fainting.

How Does a Pacemaker Work?

The pacemaker continuously monitors the heart’s electrical activity. If the heart beats too slowly or irregularly, it sends a gentle electrical impulse to prompt the heart to beat at a normal rate. This helps patients lead a healthier and more active life.

Types of Pacemakers

✅ Single-Chamber Pacemaker: Sends signals to either the right atrium or right ventricle.
✅ Dual-Chamber Pacemaker: Sends signals to both the right atrium and right ventricle, maintaining natural timing between chambers.
✅ Biventricular Pacemaker (CRT): Used for heart failure patients, helping both ventricles beat together to improve heart function.

Why Do Patients Need a Pacemaker?

A pacemaker may be recommended if you have:

• Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
• Heart block
• Symptoms like dizziness, fainting, or extreme fatigue due to slow or irregular heartbeats.

Pacemakers help improve quality of life and may prevent complications associated with slow heart rhythms.

The Pacemaker Implantation Procedure

✅ Performed under local anesthesia with sedation.
✅ A small incision is made near the collarbone to place the pacemaker and leads.
✅ The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours, and most patients return home the same or next day.

Living with a Pacemaker

Patients can typically return to normal activities with some precautions:

• Avoid heavy lifting with the arm on the pacemaker side initially.
• Attend regular follow-ups to check pacemaker function.
• Stay informed about device safety with electronic devices and airport security.

Pacemaker Support in Dhaka, Bangladesh

I’m Md Mijanur Rahman, as a Cardiac Device Specialist in Dhaka, Bangladesh, I provide:
✅ Technical support during pacemaker implantation
✅ Programming and follow-up support
✅ Patient counseling and education for safe device management

If you or your loved one needs pacemaker support or follow-up, feel free to contact me for expert assistance in ensuring optimal care and device performance.

Final Tips for Patients

✅ Follow your doctor’s advice.
✅ Report any dizziness, shortness of breath, or unusual symptoms.
✅ Carry your pacemaker ID card at all times.