The most frequent reason for needing a pacemaker is a condition called bradycardia, where the heart beats too slowly. This can occur due to various factors, including aging, heart disease, or as a side effect of certain medications. Symptoms of bradycardia may include fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, or fainting spells. In some cases, a slow heart rate can be dangerous, especially if it leads to a lack of adequate blood flow to vital organs.

Another common indication of the need for a pacemaker is heart block. This occurs when the electrical signals that coordinate your heartbeats are disrupted or blocked as they travel through the heart. Heart block can cause your heart to beat irregularly or too slowly, potentially leading to serious complications if left untreated. A pacemaker can bypass this blockage, ensuring your heart maintains a healthy rhythm.

In some cases of heart failure, a specialized type of pacemaker called a biventricular pacemaker or cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) device may be recommended. This device helps coordinate the contractions of the heart’s lower chambers, improving the heart’s efficiency and potentially reducing symptoms of heart failure.

For some individuals, particularly older adults, a pacemaker may be recommended to prevent syncope (fainting) caused by periods of slow heart rate. By maintaining a steady heart rhythm, a pacemaker can reduce the risk of falls and injuries associated with sudden loss of consciousness.

Modern pacemakers do more than just regulate your heartbeat. They can also monitor various aspects of your heart’s performance, providing valuable data to your healthcare team. This information can help in the early detection of potential issues and guide adjustments to your treatment plan.

While the primary purpose of a pacemaker is to address specific heart rhythm problems, many patients find that it significantly improves their overall quality of life. With a properly functioning heart rhythm, you may experience increased energy levels, improved exercise tolerance, and a reduction in symptoms like dizziness or shortness of breath.

CVG’s cardiologists deliver personalized, state-of-the-art care for all aspects of heart health. Schedule an appointment with our Atlanta heart doctors to explore whether a pacemaker could benefit you.

Trust your heart health to CVG’s twenty board-certified cardiologists. Equipped with leading-edge diagnostic tools, a wealth of experience, and compassion, our cardiac team provides the highest level of personalized care.

You can review our cardiologists’ pages and explore their exceptional credentials and dedication to providing quality care. You can trust that our doctors genuinely care about you and will do everything they can to ensure you have the best quality of life possible.

To learn more, please call (770) 962-0399 or 678-582-8586. You may also request an appointment online. If you have an emergency, don’t contact us online; please call 911.