Uncovering Possible Pacemaker Infections Causing Illness?
Pacemakers, small devices that help manage heart conditions by normalizing heartbeat with electric impulses, come with a slight risk of infection. This risk is around 0.5% for both initial implants and replacements, with infections usually occurring within the first 12 months after implantation or generator change [1][3].
Common locations of such infections are at the pacemaker site, which generally refers to the area where the device is implanted beneath the skin, often on the chest wall. Infections at this site may require removal and replacement of the whole pacing system [1][3].
The risk period predominantly covers the first 12 months post-procedure [1]. No additional infection risk differentiation between initial implants and replacements was found, indicating that infection risk is generally regarded as similar for both procedures.
While the risk of pacemaker-related infection is low, it is essential to be aware of the symptoms. These may include fever, chills, localized redness, inflammation, nausea, pain at the implant site, drainage from a sore near the implant site, erosion of the pacemaker through the skin, swelling, weight loss, and blood in urine. If any such changes are noticed, additional appointments should be scheduled. Regular checks of the pacemaker site and annual check-ups with a doctor can help reduce the risk of infection [1][3].
In severe cases, if the infection goes untreated, it can spread to the lungs and brain via the bloodstream and can be fatal. Patients with certain conditions, such as kidney disease on dialysis, heart failure due to advanced heart disease, and those facing repeated replacement surgeries, are at a higher risk [1].
During the surgery, the doctor will remove all the leads and any infected tissue, and prescribe a regimen of antibiotics. Using a new antibiotic envelope during the operation can reduce the risk of infection by about half [1].
It is important to note that pacemaker-related infections are a type of endocarditis that can affect the lining of heart valves [1][3]. If the infection affects the leads connected to the heart, it can lead to more severe symptoms. In some cases, a new device will be implanted in a different location, such as the opposite shoulder.
In summary, while the risk of pacemaker-related infections is relatively low, it is crucial to be aware of the symptoms and to maintain regular checks to ensure the device remains infection-free. If any issues arise, prompt medical attention should be sought.
[1] Pacemaker Complications - MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000763.htm [3] Pacemaker Infection - Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pacemaker-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20373834
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which incorporates fitness and exercise, good nutrition, and skin care, can strengthen the immune system and potentially decrease the risk of pacemaker-related infections.
- Chronic kidney disease, heart failure due to advanced heart disease, and frequent replacement surgeries are medical conditions that may increase a patient's vulnerability to pacemaker-related infections.
- Chronic diseases, such as chronic kidney disease, can affect the overall cardiovascular health and may heighten the risk of complications resulting from pacemaker infections.
- Infections in the area of the pacemaker site, caused by bacteria or other pathogens, can potentially necessitate the removal and replacement of the entire pacing system.
- In addition to checking for symptoms such as fever, chills, and localized redness, mental health factors like stress and anxiety may also influence the body's ability to fight infections and should be considered as well.
- Beyond preventing cardiovascular disease, maintaining a holistic approach to health and wellness, which encompasses physical, mental, and social well-being, can ultimately lower an individual's risk of contracting pacemaker-related infections.
