What are the 5 Common Myths About Pacemakers?

Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death in Malaysia, with pacemakers being essential in treating heart rhythm disorders. A pacemaker is a tiny device placed beneath the skin to ensure the heartbeat stays within a healthy range. Due to misunderstandings related to pacemakers and how they affect lifestyles, many individuals think twice about getting pacemakers, despite them having the potential to save lives.

These pacemaker myths are outdated in the current era of modern medicine, but they are still influencing public viewpoints and discouraging patients from receiving prompt treatment. Patients going through symptoms such as chronic fatigue, dizziness, or slow heart rates constantly delay medical consultation as they are afraid of going through pacemaker surgery, or are worried about its cost.

Myth 1: Only the Elderly have Pacemakers

It is a common misconception that pacemakers are designed specifically for older people. However, many younger individuals need pacemakers to control their cardiac rhythms, such as those who are born with congenital heart defects or those with arrhythmias.

Heart conditions such as bradycardia (slow heartbeat) and abrupt cardiac arrests affect not only seniors but also individuals aged between 30 and 40 in Malaysia. Using a pacemaker early on can help avoid complications and let these individuals lead whole, healthy lives.

Myth 2: Your Lifestyle is Limited if You have a Pacemaker

Many patients are worried that having a pacemaker means their ability to lead an active lifestyle will be restricted, but today’s modern devices prove that this myth is no longer relevant. Modern pacemakers are highly adaptable as they can adjust the heart rate automatically based on physical activity levels. 

Patients with pacemakers can do sports such as swimming, jogging, or even hiking. It is also safe to travel, and airport security protocols are made to accommodate individuals with pacemakers. Moreover, remote monitoring technologies also let patients consult their doctors without constant hospital trips, making it simple to manage everyday life. 

Myth 3: It is Dangerous and Risky to get Pacemaker Surgery

The thought of implanting a pacemaker may intimidate you, but the surgery is now a common, minimally invasive operation. In many operations, it will take 1-2 hours under local anaesthesia. Normally, patients can head home within a day. There are minimal risks to this operation, with low complication rates such as infection or bleeding.

Myth 4: Pacemakers Often Malfunction

Pacemakers are thought to be unreliable and prone to malfunctioning. However, modern pacemakers are constructed with advanced technology that guarantees they work reliably for many years. Manufacturers test their pacemakers thoroughly to avoid malfunctions, and they now include features such as self-monitoring diagnostics.

Myth 5: Pacemakers Interfere with Electronic Devices

Schedule an Appointment at Pantai Hospitals

False information about pacemakers can cause needless anxiety and hesitancy for those considering or needing this life-saving device. By unveiling the truth about the 5 common myths about pacemakers, we gain a better perspective on how these small, life-saving devices function. From the misconception that pacemakers are solely for seniors, to worries about disruption from everyday electronics, it’s crucial to separate facts and myths.

If you have inquiries about pacemakers, get in touch with us to schedule an appointment at your nearest Pantai Hospital to receive professional advice to help kickstart your health journey. To make an appointment for health screening, please contact the health screening centre at the Pantai Hospital nearest to you.

Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.