Heart rhythm condition
Bradycardia Evaluation in Reseda, CA
Bradycardia means the heart is beating too slowly. Sinus bradycardia is often described as a rate under 60 beats per minute. Not every slow pulse needs treatment. A physician determines whether evaluation or pacing should be discussed.
What sinus bradycardia is
Recovered education associated sinus bradycardia with impaired impulse generation in the SA node, the heart’s natural pacemaker, causing the rate to decrease to fewer than 60 beats per minute. It may also occur when impulses are not conducted normally from the atria to the ventricles.
A slow rate can be expected in some athletes or during sleep. A slow rate that causes symptoms or pauses is a different question.
Related causes mentioned in recovered education
Sick sinus syndrome was listed as a common association. Drugs such as beta-blockers and calcium-channel blockers can also slow the heart. Occasionally, impaired conduction to the atrial muscle was mentioned.
Do not stop a prescribed medication because of this page. Ask the prescribing physician if you have questions.
Symptoms that may prompt evaluation
People may notice fatigue, lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting, or reduced exercise tolerance. A slow pulse may also be found on an exam or EKG without symptoms.
Not every slow pulse requires a pacemaker.
How specialists may evaluate a slow rhythm
A cardiologist or electrophysiologist may review medications, an EKG, and longer monitoring if symptoms come and go. Related conduction problems, such as heart block, may be considered.
Reversible causes are looked for before any discussion of a device.
Potential treatment approaches
If a slow rhythm is related to a medication, a physician may adjust therapy. If the natural pacemaker or conduction system cannot maintain an adequate rate, a pacemaker may be discussed.
Device decisions are individualized and are not promised here.
When to contact a physician
Call the Reseda office if you have been told your heart is too slow or you have fainting with a slow pulse. Seek emergency care for fainting, severe shortness of breath, or chest pain.