Pacemaker

The heart works on the natural electrical impulses by the cardiac conduction system. An electronic pacemaker is surgically implanted in some patients suffering from cardiac arrhythmia to regulate the heart rhythm. This is done with electrical impulses generated by the pacemaker. The pacemaker system is made up of a battery pack and a couple of thin wires. The small generator is implanted under the skin. This is connected to the heart through tiny wires. The pacemaker ensures regular impulses to the heart so that they appear just like the natural pacemaker of the heart.

Demand pacemakers are those that are used only when needed. They have sensors that that kick off their pacemaker when the heart rhythm is slower than the required rate. Rate-responsive cardiac pacemakers automatically regulate the heart beat according to the body's need. It is imperative to check the functioning of the pacemaker regularly. The doctor will also need to detect any signs of the batteries wearing off. Certain medications, electrical device or electromagnetic noise can interfere with the working of the cardiac pacemaker. Handheld metal detectors, cellular phones and MRI can affect the pacemaker.

Holter monitor

A holter monitor or ambulatory electrocardiography device is a portable equipment that is used to monitor electrical activity of the heart. There are a series of electrodes attached to the chest of the patient that can record electrical signals from the heart. There is a recording monitor that can be carried in the pocket or worn around the neck. The patient's EKG for 24 hours is recorded. Values such as average heart rate, maximum and minimum heart rate are calculated. ECG tracing using Holter monitor is conducted on patients who suffer prolonged fatigue and episodes of low blood pressure and fainting. A Holter monitor aids in recording any abnormal activity of the heart. The Holter monitor is worn by the patient as he/she goes about his daily routine. It is possible to observe occasional cardiac arrhythmias, atrial fibrillation and atrial tachycardia with a Holter monitor. This device is also adviced for patients who have suffered a heart attack or under cardiac medication. A Holter monitor aids in monitoring the performance of a heart pacemaker. Smoking and close proximity to devices such as magnets and metal detectors and some electrical appliances can affect the Holter monitor readings.

Electrocardiogram

An electrocardiogram or ECG is a non-invasive diagnostic test to record the electrical voltage in the heart so as to understand its functioning and regularity of heart beats. The electrocardiogram or EKG can help in diagnosing cardiovascular disease. The ECG is used to check for any damage to the heart and regulate the functioning of the pacemaker. An electrocardiogram measures the electrical activity within the heart, thereby throwing light on the how the heart muscles function. This test is not painful. An ECG is recommended for patients who complain of regular chest pain or palpitations to check for the normal functioning of the heart. It can help in detecting heart attack or ischaemia. If a patient suffers from hypthermia, pulmonary embolism, mitral stenosis or left ventricular hypertropy, an EKG can help in diagnosis. Other non-cardiac problems such as drug overdose or electrolyte imbalance can be diagnosed with an EKG. Abnormal results from an ECG test may be indicative of arrhythmia, myocarditis, impending heart attack or enlarged heart.