What is the primary function of a pacemaker?

The primary function of a pacemaker is to regulate heart rhythm through electrical impulses. Pacemakers are medical devices designed to manage irregular heartbeats, known as arrhythmias. They achieve this by generating electrical signals that prompt the heart to beat at a normal rate. When the heart's own electrical system fails to function properly, the pacemaker intervenes by sending these electrical impulses to the heart muscle, enabling it to maintain an adequate pace and rhythm for effective blood circulation throughout the body.

This ability to provide timely electrical stimulation is what makes pacemakers critical for individuals who experience bradycardia (slow heart rate) or other rhythm disorders. By ensuring that the heart beats regularly, a pacemaker helps maintain overall cardiovascular health.