Low Heart Rates Causes and Symptoms
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Causes of bradycardia or low heart rate
Abnormally low heart rate, or bradycardia,
occurs when electrical signals that usually keep the heart
beating rhythmically become disrupted.
There are a number of causes of low heart rate:
-
aging
-
illnesses and conditions that disrupt or damage the
heart's electrical system. These diseases might
include coronary artery disease, heart attack,
endocarditis, sarcoidosis, and myocarditis
-
illnesses, conditions, or diseases that slow
electrical impulses through the heart. For example,
hypothyroidism, electrolyte imbalances caused by
abnormal potassium levels
-
certain medications, notably, such as
beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers,
antiarrhythmics, and digoxin can trigger a low
heart rate.
What symptoms will a low heart rate cause?
The most common symptoms of a low heart rate
include
-
dizziness and shortness of breath. You may become
confused easily or have trouble concentrating.
-
a low heart rate triggers a drop in blood pressure,
which may cause you to faint.
-
a feeling of fatigue is also common among those who
have a low heart rate. Exercise becomes more
difficult.
-
heart palpitations or even some chest pain.
However, some people have no symptoms at all,
or their symptoms are so slight they just think it's part of
aging.
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How too tell if you have a low heart rate
The best way is to check your pulse often. If
you notice that your heartbeat is slower than 60 beats per
minute, or has a somewhat irregular rhythm, you should seek
medical attention.
There are some tests that will tell you if you
have a low heart rate. The most important is electrocardiogram
(EKG or ECG). This is not always reliable however because
bradycardia often comes and goes, and you may not have it while
you're taking the EKG.
Portable or ambulatory electrocardiogram
devices are available which you can wear for extended periods
of time. Such a device is called a Holter monitor or cardiac
event monitor. These are lightweight and don't interfere with
your normal activities.
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