A pacemaker is an implanted device used to assist hearts that beat too slowly.  If the device senses that the heart is pausing too long between beats, it will send electrical impulses to keep the heart beating at the proper rate.  A pacemaker is prescribed for patients who have symptoms—including lightheadedness, fainting spells, and tiredness—that are due to a slow heart beat (bradycardia).

Pacemaker patients are seen every six months.  During each visit, clinic staff uses special equipment to check the battery, evaluate the function of the leads, and adjust pacemaker programming to ensure that the device is operating at maximum efficiency.

Between check-ups, you can do your part to prolong the life of your implanted device by following some simple guidelines.

Avoid these situations:

• direct physical hits on the pacemaker
• high voltage magnetic fields
• high tension wires
• MRI scans
• radiation therapy over the pacemaker
• direct arc welding contact near the pacemaker site
• radio transmitters
• long exposure to anti-theft systems in stores
• exposure to older models of microwave ovens

Your pacemaker may trigger an airport metal detector.  This will not harm the pacemaker.  Always carry your pacemaker identification card.