How to Replace a Pacemaker

If a person suffers from arrhythmia, or abnormal heart rhythm, he may need to rely on a pacemaker to stay healthy. Your heart can beat either too slowly or too quickly, and when this happens the heart may not be able to pump blood effectively. People who have arrhythmia may notice that they feel weak, fatigued, dizzy or faint or have palpitations or low blood pressure. Pacemakers are implanted under the skin and work to make the heart beat at a regular pace. Pacemakers typically need to be replaced every seven to 10 years.

Instructions

Replacing a Pacemaker

• 1

  Wait seven to 10 years after your first pacemaker is implanted.

• 2

  Contact your doctor to schedule the procedure, or to verify that you need the pacemaker replaced.

• 3

  Check that the leads (wires) also need to be replaced. The leads carry the electrical charges from the pacemaker to your heart. The leads don't always need to be replaced, but instead are simply attached to the new pacemaker. Your doctor will be able to tell you if you need new leads or if you can keep the original ones.

Proper Functioning

• 4

  Check your pacemaker regularly to ensure that it's functioning properly. You can either have your doctor check your pacemaker during a routine appointment, or have your doctor provide instructions over the phone so that you can check your pacemaker yourself.

• 5

  Maintain regular in-office checkups with your doctor. If your medical condition or lifestyle changes, your pacemaker may need to be adjusted to keep up with your changing heart rhythms.

• 6

  Explain any unusual or new symptoms that you're experiencing to your doctor. Symptoms to watch out for in particular include any that you experienced before the pacemaker was implanted.