Heart disease carries a high risk of death. It does not only affect older adults; it can occur at any age. In general, heart disease, also called cardiovascular disease, refers to conditions that involve the heart and blood vessels.

Do You Know the Causes of Heart Disease?

There are many types of heart disease, including congenital heart diseases and those that develop later in life.

• Congenital heart defects are abnormalities that arise while the heart forms in the womb, about one month after conception. These defects can change blood flow through the heart. Genetic influences, certain medical conditions, and some medicines can increase the risk of congenital heart defects.
• Infectious heart disease can result from bacterial, viral, or parasitic infection, such as endocarditis.
• Heart muscle disease refers to disorders of the heart muscle (myocardium) that make it hard for the heart to pump blood throughout the body, also known as cardiomyopathy.
• Heart valve disease occurs when the valves do not work properly.
• Heart rhythm disorders are caused by an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia).
• Coronary artery disease arises from the buildup of fatty deposits (plaque) in the arteries, called atherosclerosis.
• Heart disease can also be caused by electrical conduction disturbances within the heart.

How Is Heart Disease Treated?

Each type of heart disease is treated according to the cause and symptoms. Options include medication to relieve symptoms, lifestyle changes to prevent complications, and surgery when needed.

Surgery is usually considered when the condition has advanced to a more serious stage, in which case you might need a pacemaker or even a heart transplant.

When Do You Need a Pacemaker?

A pacemaker is a small device placed in the chest to help control the heartbeat. The purpose of implantation is to stabilize an abnormal rhythm. Placing the device in the chest requires a surgical procedure.

Normally, the heart has its own electrical system that signals the chambers when they should contract. When this system does not function properly, the heart may beat out of sequence or too weakly to meet the body’s blood needs.

A pacemaker delivers electrical impulses to correct this problem so the heart can beat in an appropriate rhythm.

Not all heart conditions require a pacemaker. Some situations in which a pacemaker may be recommended include:

• Arrhythmia, when the heart does not beat normally
• A disturbance in the electrical system of the heart, such as heart block
• Heart failure
• A prior heart attack

Signs You Might Need a Pacemaker

Pacemaker implantation is generally performed based on clear indications and symptoms. Your doctor will assess your condition and advise whether implantation is appropriate.

Report the following signs to your doctor:

• Chest pain (angina)
• Tachycardia, more than 100 heartbeats per minute
• Bradycardia, less than 60 heatbeats per minute
• Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia)
• Frequent pounding or fluttering that causes chest discomfort (palpitations)
• Shortness of breath, especially with activity
• Dizziness, nausea, or fainting without a clear cause
• Confusion without a clear cause
• Swelling of the ankles, feet, and abdomen
• Frequent nighttime urination

A pacemaker is intended to improve quality of life and reduce problems caused by heart rhythm disorders. Having a device implanted in the chest can lessen symptoms and help prevent disturbing episodes such as sudden fainting.

A pacemaker can also help prevent the heart from stopping. Discuss the benefits of a pacemaker and the need for implantation with your doctor.

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