Also known as: Bradycardia
A slow heartbeat is a resting heart rate below 60 beats per minute. While normal in fit individuals, it can cause dizziness, fatigue, or fainting if the heart cannot pump enough blood.
Bradycardia is a resting heart rate below 60 bpm. In well-conditioned athletes, rates of 40-50 bpm may be entirely normal and reflect an efficient cardiovascular system.
Pathological bradycardia occurs when the heart's electrical system malfunctions, preventing adequate cardiac output. Beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and digoxin are common medication causes.
Sick sinus syndrome and heart block are structural causes where the heart's natural pacemaker or conduction pathways are impaired, potentially requiring an artificial pacemaker.
There are several possible reasons you may be experiencing Slow Heartbeat. Here are the most common ones.
Regular endurance training increases stroke volume, allowing the heart to pump effectively at lower rates.
These blood pressure medications slow heart rate by blocking adrenaline receptors on the heart.
Damage to the heart's electrical conduction system delays or blocks impulses, slowing the rate.
Low thyroid hormone slows metabolism and heart rate throughout the body.
These approaches may help manage slow heartbeat at home. Always consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen.
Track heart rate and associated symptoms to identify patterns for your doctor.
Discuss rate-slowing medications with your doctor if experiencing symptoms.
Moderate exercise helps maintain cardiovascular health and appropriate heart rate.
ECG for rhythm analysis, Holter monitor for intermittent bradycardia, echocardiogram, thyroid function tests, and electrolyte panel.
Seek care if slow heartbeat causes fainting, severe dizziness, shortness of breath, chest pain, or confusion.
Steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of experiencing slow heartbeat.
Regular cardiovascular check-ups
Medication monitoring
Maintain thyroid health
Stay physically active
Not necessarily. In fit individuals, 50 bpm is normal. If accompanied by symptoms like dizziness or fainting, evaluation is needed.
Dehydration more commonly causes tachycardia. Bradycardia with dehydration may indicate a separate cardiac issue.
Below 60 bpm is bradycardia. Below 40 bpm or any rate causing symptoms typically needs medical attention.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.