How to Have a Pacemaker Fitted

A pacemaker is a medical device that is inserted into the body to regulate the heartbeat. A regular heartbeat is necessary to stay healthy and active. Since their introduction in the 1950s, pacemakers have helped increase the quality of lives led by people with heart issues. As of 2010, the National Academy of Engineering states that over 400,000 pacemakers are implanted in patients every year.

Instructions

• 1

  Visit the physician's office and describe your symptoms. It is essential for the doctor to know if you have rapid thumping or palpitations in your chest, if you feel light-headed or tired, if you are short of breath, if you have experienced chest pain or if you have been fainting.

• 2

  Take tests as directed by your physician. The doctor will select the most appropriate test for you based on your symptoms and the doctor's assessment of your current condition. The American Heart Association advises that simple tests are conducted first, followed by more thorough ones if necessary. The most common tests include a resting electrocardiogram, which provides useful information on the rhythm of the heart and if it is overworked or enlarged.

• 3

  Schedule a follow-up appointment with the physician to receive the results. If surgery is recommended, contact your health care provider and book your hospital visit.

• 4

  Visit the hospital for the pacemaker fitting. This is usually performed under a local anesthetic although on some occasions a general anesthetic might be required. The operation takes around one hour. You might be discharged the same day or have an overnight stay. The pacemaker will be thoroughly checked before you leave to ensure it is working properly.

• 5

  Follow your physician's advice fully as you recover from your operation. Certain activities will be limited, so you should not drive for a week after the operation and you should not lift heavy objects for two weeks.

• 6

  Visit your doctor for a follow-up consultation. Your doctor will check on your healing and general state of health. Follow any further advice offered by your doctor to achieve the best health possible.