Bradycardia is a type of cardiac arrhythmia characterized by a heart rate that falls below the normal range of 60 to 100 beats per minute. In this condition, the heart beats less than 60 times per minute. Read on to learn more about this medical condition.

What is Bradycardia?

Bradycardia is a medical condition that results in a heart rate of fewer than 60 beats per minute while at rest. However, in some cases, bradycardia can indicate a very healthy heart. For instance, athletes often have lower resting heart rates because their hearts are strong and do not need to work as hard to pump blood throughout the body. Additionally, it is normal for heart rates to decrease during deep sleep. Nonetheless, bradycardia may indicate a serious medical condition requiring treatment.

Causes of Bradycardia

Bradycardia can arise from various causes. Here are some examples:

• Electrolyte Imbalances: Insufficient levels of electrolytes like calcium, potassium, and magnesium can affect heart rate.
• Medications: Certain medications, including sedatives, antiarrhythmics, and drugs for high blood pressure, as well as some mental health conditions, can cause bradycardia.
• Inflammatory Diseases: Conditions such as rheumatic fever, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis.
• Congenital Heart Defects: Structural heart problems present at birth.
• Surgical Complications: Bradycardia may occur as a complication following heart surgery.
• Sleep Apnea: A condition characterized by interruptions in breathing during sleep.
• Heart Tissue Damage: Resulting from heart disease or a heart attack.
• Sick Sinus Syndrome: This disorder disrupts the natural pacemaker of the heart, the sinoatrial node, leading to improper electrical signals for heart contractions.
• Heart Block: This term refers to any interruption in the heart’s electrical conduction system, which can slow or block electrical impulses and disrupt the heart’s rhythm. Blockages can occur at various points in the electrical conduction system of the heart.

Some diseases associated with bradycardia include:

• Heart Failure
• Coronary Artery Disease
• Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
• Long QT Syndrome
• Hypothyroidism
• Scleroderma
• Pseudotumor Cerebri

Symptoms of Bradycardia

Bradycardia may not always present symptoms. However, if the slow heart rate affects the brain and other organs’ oxygen supply, the following symptoms may appear:

• Chest pain
• Rapid fatigue during physical activity
• Fainting or near-fainting
• Weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Memory problems

Diagnosis of Bradycardia

A comprehensive medical evaluation is performed to determine the cause of bradycardia. This includes several steps during the visit, such as:

• Inquiring about medical history
• Conducting a physical examination, including measuring blood pressure, respiratory rate, and heart rate
• An electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess the heart’s electrical activity

After this initial visit, the doctor may recommend additional tests, such as:

• Laboratory Tests: Including blood glucose levels, electrolyte levels, and thyroid function tests
• Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test to visualize the heart
• Holter Monitor: A device that measures the heart’s electrical activity during daily activities

Treatment of Bradycardia

Treatment for bradycardia depends on its underlying cause. For example, if medications are the cause, the doctor may recommend changing or adjusting the dosage of the medication. If bradycardia is due to a medical condition, it is essential to treat or manage the symptoms of that condition. Below are some treatment options for bradycardia:

1) Medications

Doctors may prescribe medications that help increase heart rate, such as:

• Dopamine
• Epinephrine
• Atropine

2) Pacemaker

If medications are ineffective, the doctor may recommend implanting a pacemaker. This device is surgically placed to stimulate heartbeats at a regular rate and rhythm.

Conclusion

If you experience symptoms that may indicate bradycardia, it is crucial to consult a doctor promptly to diagnose the underlying cause and find an appropriate solution. Early intervention can help manage the condition effectively.