How can suboptimal pacing lead to complications in patients?

Suboptimal pacing can lead to complications in patients primarily because it often results in heart failure, arrhythmias, or decreased exercise tolerance. When pacing is not optimized, the heart may not beat in a coordinated manner, which can disrupt effective blood flow and the heart's overall function. This lack of efficiency in rhythm can contribute to heart failure as the heart struggles to maintain adequate perfusion to the body's tissues and organs. Additionally, improper pacing can lead to arrhythmias, which are irregular heartbeats that can further compromise cardiac output and patient stability. This mismanagement of pacing can also limit exercise tolerance, as patients may experience fatigue, shortness of breath, or palpitations during physical activity due to inadequate cardiac performance. Thus, ensuring optimal pacing is crucial for preventing these severe complications and maintaining overall cardiac health.