Does Life Change After a Pacemaker Implant?

A pacemaker can be a lifesaving device. It is a small electrical gadget that is implanted in the chest or abdomen to regulate the heartbeat. It weighs about an ounce and contains a powerful battery, electrical circuits, a computer memory and thin insulated wires which lead to the heart muscle.

A normal heart rate is from 60 to 80 beats a minute. When the heart is beating normally, the pacemaker only acts as a monitor. When the beat becomes too fast or too slow, it sends out low-voltage electrical signals which stimulate the heart to resume its normal rhythm.

After the pacemaker has been implanted, the patient will feel better and have more energy, because the problem causing his unpleasant symptoms, the abnormal heart rhythm, has been remedied. However, there are some restrictions to be observed.

For several months after the implantation:

* Do not make any significant upper arm movements such as reaching up over your head, combing your hair or playing golf . Do not go bowling, swimming or play tennis. These activities could cause the wires leading into the heart to shift out of place.

* Do not lift anything weighing more than 10 pounds.

* Do not push or pull heavy objects. Do not shovel snow or mow the lawn.

* You may take a shower 5 days after the implantation.

* There will be small, sterile strips of tape over the incision. Keep the area clean and dry. The tape may be removed in three weeks. Report any signs of infection (increased drainage, redness, swelling, or fever) to your doctor immediately.

* Schedule a follow-up exam within six weeks of the implantation.

After three months, most people can resume their normal routines.

Long-term Precautions:

* Your pacemaker may set off security devices at airports, libraries, book stores or department stores. Carry your registration card and be ready to show it to security personnel. If you walk through these devices quickly, they will not affect the pacemaker.

* Contact sports such as boxing or racquetball should be avoided so the pacemaker won't be bumped or jolted. However, walking, jogging, swimming, tennis or bicycling is recommended. Regular exercise is important for everyone.

* Most electrical appliances around the home will not interfere with a pacemaker.

* Cellular phones and CB radios can interfere with the function of pacemakers.

* Do not carry a cellular phone in your chest pocket, even when it's turned off. Be sure it is kept at least 6 inches away from the pacemaker at all times. If you must use a cellular phone, put it to the ear farthest away from the pacemaker.

* A CB radio antenna must remain at least 6 inches away from the pacemaker.

* Do not stand at the open hood of a running car. The engine generates a strong electrical field.

* Do not use a magnetic mattress pad. It can interfere with the pacemaker's function.

* Do not have an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) test . The strong magnetic field the machine generates can dislodge the pacemaker.

* Do not get near radio transmitting towers, heavy-duty electrical equipment, ham radios or strong magnets.

Pacemakers can be lifesavers. They can also greatly improve the quality of life for those suffering from the symptoms and discomforts of irregular heart rhythms. The minor adjustments and inconveniences involved in keeping them performing well are insignificant, in comparison to the benefits and security they provide to their owners.