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Myths and Misconceptions About Pacemakers
What Patients Should Really Know

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Myths and Misconceptions About Pacemakers: What Patients Should Really Know

Myths and Misconceptions About Pacemakers

When people hear the word pacemaker, they often imagine a bulky device, an intense surgery, and a life filled with restrictions. These fears come mostly from misinformation—not facts.

As the Best Heart Doctor in Hyderabad, Dr. Bhishma Chowdary regularly meets patients who are anxious because of common myths that circulate online or through word of mouth.

The truth is that modern pacemakers are safe, smart, and life-changing devices that help millions of people live longer, healthier, and more active lives.

Pacemakers are used when the heart beats too slowly or irregularly. They work quietly in the background, ensuring that the heart maintains a steady rhythm.

Yet, many people hesitate to get one because of misconceptions. This blog will clear those doubts using simple explanations—no medical jargon, no complexity—just facts.

Myth 1: Pacemakers Are Only for the Elderly

One of the biggest misconceptions is that pacemakers are meant only for senior citizens. In reality, age has nothing to do with pacemaker eligibility.

Young adults and even children sometimes require pacemakers due to congenital heart defects, conduction issues, or complications after heart surgery.

The key factor is the heart’s electrical system, not the age of the individual. As the Best Heart Doctor in Hyderabad, Dr. Bhishma Chowdary has treated patients across different age groups who regained their quality of life after pacemaker implantation.

Myth 2: Pacemaker Surgery Is Highly Complicated and Dangerous

Many people fear the word "surgery," but pacemaker implantation is one of the safest and most routine cardiology procedures. It is typically performed under local anesthesia and takes about 45–60 minutes.

Most patients go home within a day and resume normal activities within a week or two. Thanks to advanced technology and experienced specialists like the Best Cardiologist in Hyderabad, complications are extremely rare.

Myth 3: A Pacemaker Can Shock You or Others

Pacemakers are not defibrillators. They do not deliver shocks. Their function is to regulate the heart rhythm by sending gentle electrical pulses—not shocks—to keep the heartbeat regular.

They are designed to monitor the heart and step in only when needed. You cannot feel these signals. You also cannot shock another person. Pacemakers are completely safe for daily contact with family members, including children.

Myth 4: Life Becomes Highly Restricted After Getting a Pacemaker

It’s a common belief that patients with pacemakers must avoid normal life activities. This is far from the truth.

In reality, patients can:

  • Walk, jog, and exercise moderately
  • Use mobile phones normally
  • Cook, clean, drive, travel
  • Work in offices or outdoors
  • Sleep in any comfortable position

Most people return to a full and active lifestyle. As the Best Heart Doctor in Hyderabad, Dr. Bhishma Chowdary ensures that patients receive complete post-procedure guidance so they can live confidently without unnecessary restrictions.

Myth 5: Mobile Phones, Microwaves, and Wi-Fi Devices Can Interfere with the Pacemaker

This myth is very outdated and comes from devices made decades ago. Modern pacemakers are highly shielded and resistant to everyday electronic signals.

You can safely use:

  • Wi-Fi
  • Bluetooth devices
  • Mobile phones
  • Microwave ovens
  • Smartwatches
  • Laptops and computers

Only a few heavy industrial machines or strong magnetic systems (like in MRI machines) require caution, and your doctor will guide you about those. The Best Heart Doctor in Hyderabad ensures that patients receive a clear list of do’s and don’ts to avoid unnecessary fear.

Myth 6: A Pacemaker Means You Have a Weak Heart

A pacemaker does not mean your heart is weak. It simply means that your heart's electrical system needs assistance. Many people have structurally healthy hearts, but their heart rhythm is slow or irregular.

Pacemakers help the heart beat normally—just like spectacles help someone see clearly or hearing aids help someone listen better. It is not a sign of weakness; it is a tool that enhances quality of life.

Myth 7: You Can’t Travel or Go Through Airport Security with a Pacemaker

People with pacemakers travel around the world without any issues. Airport security scanners are safe, but you should inform the security personnel so they can follow proper protocol.

Air travel is safe too, as pressure changes in aircraft cabins do not affect pacemaker function. The Best Heart Doctor in Hyderabad, Dr. Bhishma Chowdary, encourages his patients to enjoy their lives fully, including traveling.

Myth 8: Pacemakers Need Frequent Battery Changes

Pacemaker batteries last a long time—8 to 15 years, depending on the device and the patient’s heart condition. The device itself tells the doctor when the battery is nearing the end of its life, giving plenty of time to plan a replacement.

Battery replacement does not mean removing the wires inside the heart. Only the outer device is replaced, and the process is simpler than the initial implantation.

Myth 9: Pacemaker Implantation Leaves a Big Scar

Modern pacemakers are small—about the size of two matchboxes or even smaller—and the incision is usually just a few centimeters.

Over time, the scar fades significantly. The device is placed just under the skin, usually below the collarbone, and is barely noticeable.

Myth 10: Pacemakers Fix All Heart Problems

Pacemakers are incredibly useful, but they are designed for one specific purpose: regulating heart rhythm.

They do not treat:

  • blockages
  • valve diseases
  • heart failure
  • cholesterol issues
  • high blood pressure

However, pacemakers help prevent complications from severe rhythm disorders. This is why consulting the Best Cardiologist in Hyderabad is important, as only an expert can diagnose whether a pacemaker is the right solution.

Why Trust an Expert?

Pacemaker care requires experienced hands. With over 10+ years of specialized experience in cardiac interventions—including TAVR, TEVAR, angioplasty, and pacemaker implantation—Dr. Bhishma Chowdary combines skill, precision, and patient-centric care.

His advanced training and the cutting-edge technology available at AIG Hospitals make him the preferred choice for many patients looking for the Best Heart Doctor in Hyderabad.

When you choose to book a consultation with the Best Cardiologist in Hyderabad, you get:

  • Accurate diagnosis
  • Personalized treatment
  • Advanced procedural expertise
  • Long-term rhythm and cardiac care
  • Compassionate and clear guidance

Conclusion: Pacemakers Are Safe, Modern, and Life-Enhancing

Pacemakers are among the greatest innovations in modern medicine. They help people live normal, active, and fulfilling lives. The myths surrounding them often cause unnecessary fear—but the reality is very different.

If you or a loved one has been advised to consider a pacemaker, speak to an expert. With the guidance of the Best Heart Doctor in Hyderabad, you can understand your condition clearly and make informed decisions with confidence.

For consultations, heart screening, or pacemaker-related care, you can book an appointment with Dr. Bhishma Chowdary—trusted by thousands as the Best Cardiologist in Hyderabad.