Final answer:
Pacemakers are medical devices that regulate the heartbeat by providing electrical signals to encourage consistent heart contractions. They are essential in treating arrhythmias and can adjust heart rate based on physical activity. Modern pacemakers can also include defibrillators for additional safety and are programmable for tailored treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
What Do Pacemakers Do?
Pacemakers are medical devices designed to regulate the heartbeat. When the heart's natural pacemaker is irregular, an artificial pacemaker can be implanted to send electrical impulses to maintain a consistent heart rhythm. This ensures that the heart can continue to contract and efficiently pump blood throughout the body.
Key Points for Pacemakers
- Pacemakers assist in managing arrhythmias, which are problems related to the timing of the heartbeat.
- They have sensors that detect body motion and breathing to adjust the heart rate appropriately during exercise.
- Pacemakers can either be programmed to operate on demand or deliver continuous stimulation, depending on the patient's needs.
- Some pacemakers also include defibrillators to address severe heart rhythm disruptions.
- The devices are programmable and managed by cardiologists to ensure personalized treatment.