I think my father might need a pacemaker. he is 70 years old but not in very good health (my mom, the same age, is in better shape). I believe he has heart failure as his heart rate hovers around 58 and his feet are often swollen. I suggested he cut down one of his heart meds, as I thought it was slowing down his heart too much. Indeed, the doctor cut his atenolol in half at the next visit. But he is still very tired a lot and has what he calls stomache issues but i wonder if they are cardiac related. My question is: When does one treat with a pacemaker? How do I know if my dad would benefit from a pacemaker? Are there guidelines? BP usually around 150/95 but can be 125/85 when he is relaxed. Heart rate usually between 56 and 62. Thank you.
Hi and welcome to question doctors.com pacemakers are implanted in adults primarily for the treatment of sinus node dysfunction, acquired atrioventricular block, and certain fascicular blocks. They also are effective in the prevention and treatment of certain tachyarrhythmias and forms of neurocardiogenic syncope.. Your father’s case I think 58 to62 BPM is not a big deal for pace maker if his hr changes coping with activity or movement to higher than 65bpm…he needs ECG and echo to study the possibility of bradyarrythmia..and the options starting from drug management to pace maker choice which is a variety of pacemakers.. After ECG… Read more »
In my opinion there is no need for pacemaker
However if he seems in a bad shape tired all the time then you need to preform an ECG
Pacemaker is indicated in many ECG anormalities and if heart rate drops below 50
I hope i answered all your questions
Good Luck
hi
first i would recommend him to get his ECG and 2 D echocardiography done.
Depending upon these reports decision can be made regarding the need of pacemaker.
Clinically,i do not feel that he needs a pacemaker.
thanks
HI
THESE ARE VERY EARLY STAGES AND HE NEEDS THOROUGH INVESTIGATIONS DONE BEFORE THINKING OF A PACEMAKER.
USUALLY THESE SYMPTOMS RESOLVE BY MEDICINES AND EXERCISES ALONE.
hello there
pacemakers won’t cause any harm but i do not feel the necessity at this stage.
consult a cardiologist and get a basic ECG first