Bradycardia is a medical term used to describe a slower than normal heartbeat. Typically, a resting heart rate for adults should range from 60 to 100 beats per minute (bpm). However, bradycardia occurs when the heart rate falls below 60 bpm.
What Causes Bradycardia?
Bradycardia can be caused by a number of things. It can be a normal and healthy occurrence, or it can be a sign of an underlying medical condition. The cause of bradycardia can depend on the age of the individual, as well as their overall health.
Normal Causes of Bradycardia
Bradycardia is a common occurrence in many athletes or individuals who perform regular exercise. It is a sign of a healthy heart and can be considered a benefit to those individuals.
Lower resting heart rates are associated with better cardiovascular fitness, endurance, and overall health.
Abnormal Causes of Bradycardia
If bradycardia is not caused by physical fitness, it may be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Some common causes include:.
- Problems with the heart’s electrical system
- Problems with the heart’s natural pacemaker
- Low levels of thyroid hormones
- Infections that affect the heart tissue
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- A reaction to medication
- An injury to the heart, such as a heart attack
- A lifestyle that involves heavy alcohol or drug use
Symptoms of Bradycardia
Bradycardia may not present any symptoms, especially if it is caused by physical fitness. However, if the bradycardia is caused by an underlying medical condition, symptoms may include:.
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
- Confusion or memory problems
How to Identify Bradycardia?
Bradycardia can be identified with a simple pulse check. If you suspect you or someone you know may have bradycardia, follow these steps:.
- Find the pulse by placing two fingers (index and middle) on the inside of the wrist, at the base of the thumb.
- Count the number of beats in 15 seconds.
- Multiply that number by 4 to get the number of beats per minute.
- If the heart rate is consistently below 60 bpm, bradycardia may be present.
When to Seek Medical Attention?
If you are experiencing any symptoms of bradycardia, or you consistently monitor a heart rate below 60 bpm, it’s important to seek medical attention.
Related Article
Bradycardia: A Symptom of an Underlying Condition
Bradycardia can be a sign of a more serious underlying medical condition, such as heart disease or a heart attack.
Seek emergency medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms:.
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Lightheadedness or fainting
- Weak pulse
- Confusion or disorientation
- Loss of consciousness
How is Bradycardia Treated?
The treatment for bradycardia will depend on the underlying cause and the severity of symptoms. In some individuals, no treatment may be necessary if the lower heart rate is caused by regular physical exercise.
If an underlying medical condition is present, treatment may include:.
- Medications to stimulate the heart rate, such as atropine.
- A pacemaker may need to be implanted to help regulate the heartbeat.
- Treatment of the underlying medical condition, such as thyroid hormone replacement therapy or antibiotics for infection.
Preventing Bradycardia
Some causes of bradycardia are out of our control, such as underlying medical conditions or genetics.
However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical exercise, a balanced diet, and limited alcohol or drug use, may help reduce the risk of developing bradycardia.
If you suspect you have bradycardia, talk to your doctor. They can help determine the underlying cause and determine the best treatment options for you.
