Bradycardia – Symptoms and Causes

What is Bradycardia?

Bradycardia refers to an unusually slow heart rate. Most adults have a resting heart rate between 60 and 100 beats per minute. But someone with bradycardia has a heart rate below 60 beats per minute.

Not all cases of slow heart rate indicate a problem. Many healthy young adults and athletes naturally have resting heart rates between 40 and 60 beats per minute. Slower heart rates during sleep are also perfectly normal.

However, bradycardia becomes concerning when the heart can’t pump enough oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. This inadequate blood flow may cause several symptoms:

• Dizziness
• Extreme fatigue
• Weakness
• Shortness of breath

Some people with bradycardia experience no symptoms at all and require no treatment. For those with severe cases that cause significant symptoms, a pacemaker might be necessary.

Signs of a Slow Heartbeat

A slow heartbeat, known as bradycardia, can lead to several noticeable symptoms when it prevents enough oxygen from reaching the brain and other organs.

People with this condition might feel chest pain or discomfort. They may also experience confusion or have trouble remembering things.

Dizziness and feeling lightheaded are common symptoms. Extreme tiredness, especially during physical activities, often occurs with bradycardia.

Some people might faint or feel like they’re about to pass out. Trouble breathing or shortness of breath can also happen.

When Medical Help Is Needed

See a doctor for a checkup if you’re concerned about a slow heart rate. Many different conditions can cause similar symptoms, so getting the right diagnosis is important.

Don’t wait to get emergency help if you:

• Faint
• Have trouble breathing
• Experience chest pain that lasts more than a few minutes

In these situations, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

Causes

Bradycardia has several potential causes related to different body systems, health conditions, and external factors. The heart’s normal beating process can be disrupted in various ways.

Age-related heart tissue damage is a common factor in slow heart rate. People may also develop bradycardia from damage that occurs during a heart attack or from existing heart disease.

Some individuals are born with heart defects that affect their heart rate.

Various inflammatory conditions can lead to bradycardia, including:

• Myocarditis (heart tissue inflammation)
• Rheumatic fever
• Lupus

Medical procedures and conditions that may cause slow heart rate include:

• Complications following heart surgery
• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Imbalances in body minerals like potassium or calcium

Several medications are known to slow heart rate, particularly:

• Sedatives
• Opioid pain medications
• Certain heart medications
• Some mental health treatments

The heart’s electrical system plays a key role in bradycardia development. In a healthy heart, the sinus node in the right upper chamber (atrium) acts as a natural pacemaker. It generates electrical signals that initiate every heartbeat.

Bradycardia occurs when these signals slow down or are blocked.

Two specific heart signaling problems that can cause bradycardia are:

1. Bradycardia-tachycardia syndrome – A condition where sinus node problems cause alternating slow and fast heart rates.
2. Heart block – When electrical signals cannot properly travel from the upper heart chambers (atria) to the lower chambers (ventricles).

Risk Factors

Several factors may increase the chance of developing bradycardia:

• Age: Older individuals face a higher risk
• Heart health: High blood pressure damages heart tissue
• Lifestyle choices: Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption
• Substance use: Illegal drugs can affect heart rhythm
• Mental health: Stress and anxiety may contribute to heart problems

These factors often lead to heart disease, which can damage heart tissue and result in bradycardia.

Risks and Health Issues

Bradycardia can lead to several serious problems if left untreated. People with this condition may experience:

• Repeated fainting episodes
• Weakening heart function leading to heart failure
• Risk of sudden cardiac arrest or death

These complications happen because the heart isn’t pumping enough blood to meet the body’s needs. When the brain and other organs don’t get enough oxygen, these dangerous situations can develop.

Prevention

Taking steps to protect your heart health can help lower your risk of developing bradycardia. Consider these important preventive measures:

Regular Physical Activity

• Consult with healthcare providers about exercise types suitable for your condition.
• Aim for consistent activity throughout the week.
• Start slowly and gradually increase intensity.

Heart-Healthy Diet

• Focus on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Reduce salt and solid fat intake.
• Choose lean proteins and healthy oils.

Weight Management

Work with your healthcare team to establish realistic weight goals. Maintaining a healthy BMI reduces strain on your heart and circulatory system.

Control Key Health Metrics

Monitor and manage your blood pressure and cholesterol through lifestyle changes and medications as prescribed by your doctor.

Avoid Tobacco Products

Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of heart disease. If quitting is difficult, ask about cessation programs or medications that might help.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

Women should have no more than one drink daily, while men should limit to two drinks per day at maximum. Some people may benefit from avoiding alcohol completely.

Stress Management Techniques

• Regular exercise.
• Mindfulness meditation.
• Deep breathing exercises.
• Joining support groups.
• Pursuing enjoyable hobbies.

Prioritize Sleep Quality

Adults should aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night. Maintain consistent sleep and wake times, even on weekends. If sleep problems persist, discuss solutions with your healthcare provider.

Follow-Up Care

Regular medical checkups are essential for monitoring heart health. For those already diagnosed with heart conditions:

1. Follow treatment plans precisely.
2. Take all medications as directed.
3. Keep all scheduled appointments.
4. Report any new or changing symptoms promptly to your healthcare team.