CONDUCTION SYSTEM - HEARTS ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Electrical impulses from your heart muscle (the myocardium) cause your heart to beat (contract). This electrical signal begins in the sinoatrial (SA) node, known as natural pacemaker, located at the top of the right atrium. The SA node is sometimes called the heart's "natural pacemaker." When an electrical impulse is released from this natural pacemaker, it causes the atria to contract. The signal then passes through the atrioventricular (AV) node. The AV node checks the signal and sends it through the muscle fibers of the ventricles, causing them to contract. The SA node sends electrical impulses at a certain rate, but your heart rate may still change depending on physical demands, stress, or hormonal factors.

ARTIFICIAL PACEMAKER

When the natural pacemaker of the body (The SA node) goes wrong (due to shortage of blood in 95% cases), artificial pacemakers are implanted in many people. A pacemaker is an implantable device that helps regulate slow heartbeats (bradycardia). The battery-driven device, which is smaller than a matchbox, is placed under the skin near the collarbone in a minor surgical procedure. An insulated wire extends from the device to the right side of the heart, where it is permanently anchored.

If a pacemaker detects a heart rate that is too slow or no heartbeat at all, it emits electrical impulses that stimulate your heart to speed up or begin beating again. Most pacemakers have a sensing device that turns them off when the heartbeat is above a certain level. It turns back on when the heartbeat is too slow.

If you have a pacemaker, be aware of your surroundings and the devices that may interfere with their performance, such as antitheft systems in stores and metal detectors. These devices may not cause a problem, but it is best just to walk through and not linger by them. Microwave ovens and other common appliances don't interfere with pacemakers. In addition, be sure to carry identification with you that indicates you have a pacemaker. And always tell your doctor or dentist before they administer any testing that uses medical or electronic devices.

CONGENITAL HEART DEFECTS

It was to be one of the happiest times of your life. Instead, your heart is breaking. You've just learned your newborn has a heart problem. How could this have happened? Is he or she in pain? What does the future hold for your child?

First, don't blame yourself. Congenital heart defects (hear problems existing at birth) occur in about 1 out of every 125 live births. Family history and certain viral infections during pregnancy may indicate the cause. But in most cases, physicians don't know why the heart fails to develop properly.

Second, pain is not common. Many newborns with congenital heart defects have no symptoms. Some congenital heart defects can cause excessive sleepiness or rapid breathing. Others may cause babies to tire quickly while eating. Most likely, your child feels no different than other newborns.

Finally, there is a good chance that your child's future will be bright. Most heart defects can be corrected or improved with surgery. Many children with congenital heart defects live full and healthy lives.

 

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This article is written by Dr. Bimal Chhajer (India's best heart doctor)