Pacingfrekvensen

Pacingfrekvensen refers to the rate at which a cardiac pacemaker stimulates the heart. It is typically measured in beats per minute (bpm) and is a critical parameter set by a physician to ensure the heart beats at an appropriate rhythm. The optimal pacing frequency is determined by the individual patient's medical condition, age, and activity level.

For individuals with bradycardia, a slow heart rate, the pacemaker is programmed to fire at a rate sufficient to maintain adequate blood flow to the body. This prevents symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, and fainting. In some cases, the pacing frequency may be set to a fixed rate, meaning the pacemaker will stimulate the heart at a constant bpm regardless of the heart's natural rhythm.

In other situations, particularly for patients with heart failure or certain arrhythmias, an "on-demand" or "rate-responsive" pacing mode is used. This allows the pacemaker to sense the heart's natural rhythm and only deliver a stimulus when the heart rate drops below a programmed minimum. Rate-responsive pacemakers can also increase the pacing frequency in response to physical activity, as detected by sensors that monitor movement or respiration, to match the body's increased demand for oxygen.

Adjusting the pacingfrekvensen is a key part of managing pacemaker patients. Regular follow-up appointments with a cardiologist are necessary to monitor the pacemaker's function and fine-tune the pacing settings if needed. This ensures the device is providing effective support and maintaining optimal cardiovascular health.