Bradycardia
What is bradycardia?
Bradycardia is a slower than normal heart rate – usually less than 60 beats per minute.
The average adult heart beats 60 to 100 times per minute at rest.
What are the symptoms of bradycardia?
Bradycardia may have no symptoms. If symptoms are present, they may include:
- dizziness
- light headedness
- palpitations
- shortness of breath
- fatigue
- fainting
- chest pain
- confusion
What causes bradycardia?
Bradycardia can be normal for people who are very physically fit – such as competitive athletes. It can also be normal during sleep.
Bradycardia in others may be due to:
- heart damage due to heart attack or heart disease, or due to ageing
- congenital heart defects
- hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
- electrolyte (such as potassium and calcium) imbalance in the blood
- some medications e.g. blood pressure medications, heart arrhythmia medications, mental health disorder medications, sedatives, and opioids
- sleep apnoea
How is bradycardia diagnosed?
Bradycardia can be hard to diagnose as it may only occur at certain times.
If bradycardia is suspected, the following tests may be performed:
- physical exam – including listening to the heartbeat through a stethoscope
- electrocardiogram (ECG)
- 24-hour Holter monitor, to increase the likelihood of identifying periods of bradycardia
- blood tests e.g. to check thyroid function
How is bradycardia treated?
Treatment options will vary depending on the cause of the bradycardia. People that are physically fit and have no other symptoms may not require treatment.
Treatment for bradycardia caused by health issues may include:
- implantation of a pacemaker to manage severe bradycardia
- medication e.g. to treat thyroid issues
- changes to medication e.g. if a certain medication, such as a beta blocker, is causing the slow heart rate
How can bradycardia be prevented?
Bradycardia is not typically preventable. However, it is possible to reduce the risk of heart diseases that can lead to bradycardia by making lifestyle changes such as:
- exercising regularly
- eating a healthy diet
- maintaining a healthy weight
- quitting smoking
- reducing alcohol intake
- reducing stress
- keeping cholesterol and blood pressure within a healthy range
Acknowledgement of Country
The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute acknowledges Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
