Bradycardia means an abnormally slow heart rate, typically a resting heart rate of less than 60 beats per minute (BPM) in adults.
Key points:
Normal Physiological Variations: A heart rate below 60 BPM may be normal, especially in well-trained athletes, or during deep sleep, or older people.
Medications: Some medications, particularly those used to treat high blood pressure and certain heart conditions, can slow the heart rate as a side effect.
Heart Block: This is a condition where the electrical signals that control the heartbeat are delayed or blocked as they move through the heart’s electrical system.
Sick Sinus Syndrome: This is a disorder of the heart’s electrical system that can cause the heart to beat too slowly, too fast, or irregularly.
Vagal Stimulation: The vagus nerve, which plays a role in regulating heart rate, can be stimulated by factors such as vomiting, straining during bowel movements, or carotid sinus massage, leading to bradycardia.
Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism, electrolyte imbalances, and infections affecting the heart, can lead to bradycardia.
Symptoms: dizziness, fatigue, weakness, fainting (syncope), shortness of breath, chest pain.
Treatment: Medications such as antiarrhythmics or heart stimulators. A pacemaker implant may help. Lifestyle changes involve staying well-hydrated and avoiding alcohol and caffeine.