The world of pacemakers is quiet complex. Some people develop abnormal heart rhythms- the heart may suddenly go fast or too slow. When the heart rate is fast, one can take medications. However, when the heart rate is too slow, there are no medications that can be used on a daily basis at home. Slow heart rate can be treated in a hospital setting with intravenous drugs. There is no pill that can effectively increase heart rate.
So now, we have pacemakers. There are many types of pacemakers and they can cost anywhere from $8,000-$30,000. The type of pacemaker you need is determined after studies on your heart. Pacemakers are life saving. The procedure to insert a pacemaker is very simple and rarely takes more than 30-45 minutes (unless your doctor is incompetent). The procedure can be done under local anesthesia and is not painful at all. It involves placing a small thin wire (electrode) in one of the chambers of your heart. The procedure is always done using x rays to ensure that the electrode is inserted into the correct anatomical position. Then a miniature pacemaker (about the size of a credit card) is inserted beneath the skin in the chest. The electrode is then connected to the pacemaker. The pacemaker is programmed and you are all set. Today, pacemakers have saved countless lives and work well for 7-12 years. Only the battery needs to be changed every 5-10 years.
Pacemakers can be inserted at any age and the risks are minimal. In the past, there have been a few doctors who allegedly have inserted pacemakers for trivial reasons (like making more money). Today, there are strict Medicare rules on who can receive a pacemaker. If you have been told by your physician you need a pacemaker, discuss the issues with a cardiologist (heart doctor). After a pacemaker, you will definitely notice a difference in your overall health.
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