Health Tip: Don't Ignore Pacemaker Issues

(HealthDay News) -- If you have an irregular heartbeat, a pacemaker can help restore your heart to its natural rhythm and help the heart continue to pump blood to the rest of the body.

But once the device is implanted, you shouldn't just "set it and forget it," experts say. The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute says these potential problems can affect a pacemaker:

Interference with the pacemaker's electrical signal caused by other devices, such as cellphones, microwave ovens or high-tension electrical wiring.Broken or dislodged wires.Failing or weakened battery.Progression of heart disease.

-- Diana Kohnle
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