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A patient needs a pacemaker when he or she has problems from a slow heart rate. In this video, Ravi K. Sureddi, MD, a cardiac electrophysiologist at Riverside Community Hospital, describes various elements of a slow heart rate.
A person might need a pacemaker to be inserted for several reasons. These include:
- Malfunctions in the heart's sinoatrial (SA) node, also called the body's natural pacemaker. When the SA node does not work properly, the heart can beat too slowly.
- Malfunctions in the heart’s atrioventricular (AV) node, which sends electrical signals from the SA node to the ventricles. When the AV node malfunctions, this leads to a slow heartbeat.
- Poor heart performance because of severe symptoms of congestive heart failure and a weakened heart muscle.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.