Bradycardia is a slower than normal heart rate, that is a common problem.
The hearts of adults at rest usually beat between 60 and 100 times a minute. If you have bradycardia, your heart beats fewer than 60 times a minute. A resting heart rate slower than 60 beats a minute is normal for some people, particularly healthy young adults and trained athletes. For them, bradycardia isn't considered a health problem.
Bradycardia can be a serious problem if the heart doesn't pump enough oxygen-rich blood to the body.
An implanted pacemaker can correct bradycardia and help your heart maintain an appropriate rate.
For some people, however, bradycardia doesn't cause symptoms or complications. But sometimes it causes dizziness or lightheadedness, fatigue, near fainting or fainting, chest pain, shortness of breath and etc.
When to see a doctor
A number of conditions can cause signs and symptoms of bradycardia. It's important to get a prompt, accurate diagnosis and appropriate care. See your doctor if you or your child has symptoms of bradycardia.
If you faint, have difficulty breathing or have chest pain lasting more than a few minutes, get emergency care.
Causes
Bradycardia can be caused by:
- Heart tissue damage related to aging
- Damage to heart tissues from heart disease or heart attack
- Heart disorder present at birth (congenital heart defect)
- Infection of heart tissue (myocarditis)
- A complication of heart surgery
- Underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism)
- Imbalance of chemicals in the blood, such as potassium or calcium
- Repeated disruption of breathing during sleep (obstructive sleep apnea)
- Medications
Typically, bradycardia is common in old age.
Risk factors include: High blood pressure, smoking, heavy alcohol use, recreational drug use, psychological stress or anxiety.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bradycardia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355474
