What is a Pacemaker?
A pacemaker is a medical device that helps keep your heart beating in a steady and reliable rhythm. It’s placed under the skin, usually near the collarbone, and connected to your heart with wires called leads.
Why might I need a pacemaker?
Sometimes the heart beats too slowly, too irregularly, or misses beats altogether. This can cause symptoms like tiredness, dizziness, or fainting. A pacemaker helps by sending gentle electrical signals to your heart, making sure it keeps a safe and steady rhythm.
How does it work?
Sensing: The pacemaker continuously “listens” to your heart’s natural rhythm.
Pacing: If your heart doesn’t beat when it should, the pacemaker sends a tiny pulse to get it back on track.
Living with a pacemaker
Most people quickly forget they even have one - it works silently in the background.
Once you’ve recovered from your procedure, you can usually return to daily life, including travel, exercise, and using household appliances - many people even feel more energised.
Your pacemaker is regularly checked through remote monitoring and clinic visits to make sure it’s working properly and that the battery is healthy. It can also detect abnormal heart rhythms so they can be addressed promptly.
Different types of pacemakers
Standard pacemakers
Most pacemakers have one or two leads placed on the right side of the heart to keep the rhythm steady.
Resynchronisation pacemakers
Some people may need a special type of pacemaker called a cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) pacemaker, also known as a biventricular pacemaker.
A CRT pacemaker has an extra lead that sits on the left side of the heart.
This extra lead helps the left and right sides of the heart beat in time with each other, improving the heart’s ability to pump blood around the body.
Many patients with CRT devices notice they feel less breathless, have more energy, and can do more in their daily lives.
Your cardiologist will decide if a CRT pacemaker is right for you based on how your heart is pumping.
How long does a pacemaker last?
Pacemakers can last up to 10 years or more, depending on how much pacing you need. When the battery runs low, it doesn’t stop suddenly - it gives plenty of warning through remote monitoring and routine checks. When the time is right, your cardiologist will schedule a replacement. Replacements are usually a straightforward day procedure, where the old device is swapped for a new one using the same leads.
Reassurance for you
A pacemaker is designed to make life easier and safer, not harder. For most people, it means fewer symptoms, more energy, and peace of mind knowing their heart is supported.