About-Cardio
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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Causes of a Slow Heart Rate (Bradycardia)
Introduction
A slow heart rate, also known as bradycardia, is a condition where the heart beats at a rate lower than 60 beats per minute (bpm). While some people, particularly athletes, may naturally have a low heart rate without problems, in others, bradycardia can indicate an underlying medical issue.
Common Causes of Bradycardia
1. Age-Related Changes
- As people age, the conduction system of the heart can become less efficient, leading to bradycardia.
2. Heart Conditions
- Sick Sinus Syndrome – Dysfunction of the heart's natural pacemaker (the sinoatrial node) can cause slow heart rates.
- Heart Block – A disruption in the electrical signals between the upper (atria) and lower (ventricles) chambers can slow the heart rate.
- Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction) – Damage to the heart muscle can affect its electrical activity.
3. Medication Side Effects
- Drugs such as beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and some antiarrhythmics can lower heart rate.
4. Electrolyte Imbalances
- Low potassium (hypokalemia) or high potassium (hyperkalemia) levels can interfere with heart conductivity.
5. Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
- Reduced thyroid hormone levels slow down overall metabolism, including heart rate.
6. Sleep Apnea
- Obstructive sleep apnea can cause intermittent drops in oxygen levels, affecting the heart's rhythm.
7. Inflammatory or Infectious Diseases
- Conditions like Lyme disease, myocarditis, or lupus can affect the heart's electrical system.
8. Vagal Nerve Stimulation
- Overstimulation of the vagus nerve (e.g., during vomiting, bowel movements, or carotid sinus hypersensitivity) can slow the heart rate.
Symptoms to Watch For
While some people with bradycardia may have no symptoms, others may experience: - Fatigue - Dizziness or lightheadedness - Shortness of breath - Chest pain - Confusion or memory issues - Fainting (syncope)
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as fainting, chest pain, or severe dizziness. Routine check-ups are essential, especially if you have known heart conditions, are on medications, or are at risk for heart disease.
Conclusion
Bradycardia can be a normal variant or a sign of an underlying condition. Identifying the cause is crucial for appropriate management, which may include lifestyle changes, medication adjustments, or even a pacemaker in severe cases.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Bradycardia
- https://cpr.heart.org/-/media/cpr-files/cpr-guidelines-files/algorithms/algorithmacls_bradycardia_200612.pdf
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/about-arrhythmia/bradycardia--slow-heart-rate
- https://cpr.heart.org/en/resuscitation-science/cpr-and-ecc-guidelines/algorithms
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000628
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30586772/
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Cardiac Arrhythmias
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Ventricular-Arrhythmias-and-the-Prevention-of-Sudden-Cardiac-Death
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/43/40/3997/6675633
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Supraventricular-Tachycardia
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36017572/
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.cir.0000091380.04100.84
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
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