Pacemaker or Defibrillator: What’s the Difference?
- Posted on: Nov 4 2024
If you have been diagnosed with an arrhythmia, it means your heart beats at a pace that is faster than typical, slower than typical, or with a different pattern than is typical. An arrhythmia can sometimes be corrected with medications. However, many arrhythmias may benefit from an implanted medical device, such as a pacemaker or a defibrillator.
It can be confusing to distinguish between a pacemaker and a defibrillator. While they are typically used for different reasons, some arrhythmias may benefit from both a pacemaker and a defibrillator. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Pacemaker?
A pacemaker, or “pacer,” is a medical device that is either implanted under the skin and above the heart or into the heart itself (this is known as a “leadless” pacemaker). This device helps the heart maintain a typical rate. It works by sensing the heart’s rhythm and then delivering continuous low-impulse shocks to trigger the heart to beat at a predictable, steady pace. A pacemaker can increase the heartbeat if the heart is pumping too slowly.
When Are Pacemakers Used?
A pacemaker is typically used when people have bradycardia, which is a slow heartbeat. Bradycardia can be triggered by a number of conditions, either electrical or structural. Pacemakers can also be helpful to maintain your heart rate if you have a condition known as a heart block.
What Is a Defibrillator?
A defibrillator is a device that helps restore the heart to a typical rhythm if it suddenly starts beating too fast or erratically. It does this by delivering an electrical shock to the heart, causing the heart to stop beating and then immediately resume beating at a normal pace and pattern. Similar to a pacemaker, a defibrillator continuously monitors your heartbeat. However, the electrical impulses it delivers are stronger than a pacemaker’s, and they are only delivered in emergency situations.
When Are Defibrillators Used?
A defibrillator can be helpful if a person is prone to certain arrhythmias, such as ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation, which can be fatal if not corrected quickly.
Are Both a Pacemaker and a Defibrillator Ever Necessary?
Yes. Many arrhythmias benefit from both a pacemaker and a defibrillator. In fact, some newer devices even pair these functions within the same device.
How to Learn More About Pacemakers Versus Defibrillators
It can be intimidating to decipher what treatment plan is best to help address an arrhythmia. At Hunterdon Cardiovascular Associates, we are committed to providing the highest quality of care in a patient-centered environment. This includes helping our patients determine whether they may need a pacemaker or defibrillator. Our subspecialty clinic, the Center for Atrial Fibrillation and Electrophysiology at HCA, ensures that our patients with arrhythmias receive the most up-to-date and effective care for their condition. To make an appointment with one of our electrophysiologists, please contact us today.
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