How to Simplify Life With a Pacemaker: The Dos & Don’ts

For individuals with heart rhythm problems, pacemaker implantation surgery could be their best chance at a better quality of life. The small, battery-operated device becomes indispensable from the moment it is implanted within the chest to assist the heart in functioning without any glitches.

If you or someone you know has had a permanent pacemaker implantation, it is best to stay aware of what to do during recovery. This blog will guide you through the essential guidelines for maintaining pacemaker efficiency and recovering from the surgery.

A Small Introduction to Pacemakers: Helping the Heart Beat On!

Although the pacemaker is a small device, it plays a significant role in maintaining a steady heart rhythm by sending electrical signals to your heart. Whether you require a permanent or temporary pacemaker depends mainly on your heart health. Your doctor may recommend a temporary pacemaker implantation to treat a slow heart rhythm that may occur due to a heart attack or medication overdose.

On the other hand, permanent pacemaker implantation may be the only way to rectify bradyarrhythmia and heart blocks.

The pacemaker mimics the heart's natural rhythm and works only when necessary. It is built with sensors to detect and rectify abnormal heart rhythms immediately. A pacemaker implantation is a cue for certain permanent lifestyle modifications. Although you can participate in all the activities that you refrained from earlier, there are certain limitations that you must implement until your doctor says otherwise.

Pacemaker Dos & Don’ts to Lead a Regular Lifestyle

The Dos

• Get plenty of rest and give your body time to heal from the surgery.
• Keep the incision area free of dirt or water to prevent infection.
• Follow your doctor’s instructions to care for the incision site.
• Diligently follow the medication instructions to maintain heart health and prevent post-surgical complications.
• Look out for unexpected symptoms such as dizziness, breathlessness or chest pain.
• If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
• Attend your follow-up consultations without fail. Your doctor will check if your pacemaker is working properly.
• Increase your physical activity only with your doctor's approval. Start with a few minutes of walking and gradually increase your activity level.
• Maintain a heart-healthy diet to prevent cardiac emergencies and to enjoy a safe lifestyle.
• Increase your fluid intake to stay hydrated. However, ensure that your fluids comprise water, fresh juices, and other healthy alternatives.

The Don’ts

• For the first few weeks after surgery, avoid strenuous activities or lifting heavy objects that weigh more than five kilograms.
• Avoid raising your arm above your shoulders to prevent straining the incision site and delay healing.
• Avoid driving unless you recover completely and your doctor permits you to do so.
• Avoid any kind of sexual activity for at least a week after the procedure.
• Do not get discouraged by the recovery time since it differs from person to person. Be patient and celebrate small health-related victories in your recovery journey.

Long-Term Dos & Don’ts

A pacemaker implantation is undoubtedly a big change from your normal activities. Here are some things that you ought to follow for the rest of your life:

• DO inform your doctor about your pacemaker before undergoing any medical procedures such as diagnostic imaging and dental work.
• DO carry a pacemaker identification card at all times. The card carries vital information to help you during emergencies. You will also require this card for security clearance at airports, malls, stores, and other public places.
• DO consult your doctor to check the life of your pacemaker battery. Your doctor will inform you when you should have your device checked.

For people living with a pacemaker, knowing about Electromagnetic interference or EMI is vital.

What is EMI & How to Protect Your Pacemaker From Electromagnetic Fields?

Electromagnetic Interference or Radio-frequency interference refers to the electromagnetic field generated by certain electrical devices. EMI interferes with the performance of another electronic device within its vicinity. This device list includes household appliances, heavy electrical equipment and certain medical procedures.

Symptoms of EMI

A person with a pacemaker is likely to experience the following symptoms if the electromagnetic field affects their device:

• Dizziness
• Rapid or irregular heartbeats

Effects of EMI on Pacemaker Functionality

Pacemakers exposed to electromagnetic interference can suddenly switch to an asynchronous pacing mode. Other impacts include:

• Unexpected reprogramming
• Heating of the endocardium when the pacing wires act as serials
• Inappropriate device triggering
• Inhibition of output
• Damage to the circuit within the device.
• Disrupting the functioning of the device.
• The device may falsely sense arrhythmias and generate unnecessary shocks.
• Interference with Pulmonary Artery Sensor Reading.

Prevention & Management of Pacemaker Malfunction Due to EMI

If you have had a pacemaker implantation, always inform your doctor or your diagnostic team before undergoing any medical procedure.

You should consult your doctor before undergoing the following procedures:

• Microwave Diathermy
• MRI scans

It is best to consult with your doctor before undergoing the following medical procedures:

• Radiofrequency ablation
• Cardioversion
• Acupuncture
• Lasik eye surgery
• Colonoscopy
• Gastroscopy
• Electrocautery
• Hyperbaric therapy
• TENS

However, the following procedures do not generate any electromagnetic interference with pacemakers.

• CT scan
• ECG
• Bone density scan
• PET scan for mammography
• X-ray
• Fluoroscopy
• Ultrasound scan
• Dental drilling
• Ultrasonic scalers

Electrical & Electronic Devices to Avoid

Pacemakers are susceptible to EMF generated by the following devices:

• Chairs and mattresses with magnets
• Defective electrical motors and equipment
• Improperly grounded electrical equipment
• Induction furnaces
• Combustion engines
• Arc welders
• Electricity generated from power lines
• Certain electrical tools
• Entertainment devices in unipolar sensing mode.

Non-Risky Household Appliances & Electronics

Devices like cordless phones, cell phones, hand-held massagers, DVD players, hearing aids, electric dental kits, electric razors, and hair dryers do not pose a risk for those with pacemakers. However, it is best to exercise caution when utilizing these devices. To limit the risk of EMI, it is best to hold the appliance at a forearm’s length.

When using cell phones, it is safer to hold the phone to the ear opposite where your pacemaker sits. Never place the phone directly above the pacemaker for long periods.

Journey to Wellness With Pacemakers

Living with a pacemaker does not mean you should give up on a fulfilling life. Our simple guidelines will help you stay safe and recover fully from your pacemaker implantation.

Consult an interventional cardiologist near you, to gain a better understanding of your safety post-pacemaker implantation.

For more, blog - https://www.drkarthigesanclinic.com/pacemaker-dos-and-donts/