Whether a pacemaker is the right move really depends on your specific situation — your symptoms, heart rhythm issues, and overall health. That said, for many people with heart disease, a pacemaker can make a real difference in quality of life.
One MyHeartDiseaseTeam member shared, "I just celebrated 27 years of living on Show Full Answer
Whether a pacemaker is the right move really depends on your specific situation — your symptoms, heart rhythm issues, and overall health. That said, for many people with heart disease, a pacemaker can make a real difference in quality of life.
One MyHeartDiseaseTeam member shared, "I just celebrated 27 years of living on pacemakers. It's helped a lot." A pacemaker is a small device implanted under the skin near the collarbone. It sends electrical signals to help the heart beat in a steady, regular rhythm — and most people don't feel it working at all.
It may be recommended if you experience:
- An abnormally slow heart rate
- Irregular heart rhythms or arrhythmias
- Heart block (when electrical signals between heart chambers are disrupted)
- Side effects from medications like beta-blockers that slow the heart The implantation procedure is considered low-risk, with a success rate close to 100%. Recovery outcomes are generally excellent.
However, there are some things to be aware of after getting a pacemaker:
- Some people experience sleep discomfort if the device isn't perfectly positioned
- Certain medical procedures (like MRIs or electrocautery) may interfere with it
- Airport security may require extra steps, though this is manageable The best next step is a conversation with a cardiologist, who can weigh your medical history, lifestyle, and goals to help determine if a pacemaker — and which type — is right for you.
July 9
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