The most common reason people get a pacemaker is their heart beats too slowly (called bradycardia), or it pauses, causing fainting spells or other symptoms. In some cases, the pacemaker may also be used to prevent or treat a heartbeat that is too fast (tachycardia) or irregular.
What are the signs you need a pacemaker?
How to tell if you need a pacemaker
- Frequent fainting.
- Inexplicable fatigue (you get enough sleep and stay healthy, yet always feel tired)
- Inability to exercise, even lightly, without getting very winded.
- Frequent dizziness or lightheadedness.
- Heart palpitations or sudden, intense pounding in your chest (without exercise)
What heart rate needs a pacemaker?
You have been diagnosed with bradycardia. If you take your pulse and find your heart rate is slow from time to time, below 60 beats per minute, this doesn't mean you have bradycardia. However, if your doctor has done tests and diagnosed you with bradycardia, you may need a pacemaker to maintain a healthy heart rhythm.
