The "heart beating machine" often referred to in discussions about heart health is typically a pacemaker.
Understanding the Pacemaker
A pacemaker is a small, implanted medical device designed to help regulate the heart's rhythm. It is used primarily to manage conditions where the heart beats irregularly or too slowly.
Based on the provided information:
- Pacemakers are used to manage bradycardia. This is a condition that causes the heart to beat too slowly—specifically, less than 60 beats per minute.
- The pacemaker works by producing electrical pulses. These pulses are sent to the heart muscle, stimulating it to beat at a more normal and consistent rate.
In essence, the pacemaker acts as a conductor for your heart's electrical system, ensuring it maintains a healthy pace, especially when it cannot do so on its own due to conditions like bradycardia.
