Bradyarrhythmia

Bradyarrhythmia refers to a group of heart rhythm disorders characterized by a heart rate that is slower than normal. Typically, a healthy adult heart beats between 60 and 100 times per minute at rest. When the heart rate falls below 60 beats per minute, it is considered bradycardia. Bradyarrhythmias can occur due to problems with the heart's natural pacemaker, the sinoatrial (SA) node, or with the electrical pathways that conduct impulses through the heart, such as the atrioventricular (AV) node.

Symptoms of bradyarrhythmia can vary depending on the severity and underlying cause. Some individuals may experience no symptoms, while others might report fatigue, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting (syncope), shortness of breath, or chest pain. These symptoms arise because the slow heart rate may not be sufficient to deliver adequate oxygenated blood to the body's organs.

The causes of bradyarrhythmia are diverse. They can include age-related degeneration of the heart's electrical system, certain medications (such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers), heart disease (including previous heart attacks or heart failure), electrolyte imbalances, and hypothyroidism. In some cases, bradyarrhythmia can be a normal physiological response, such as during sleep or in highly trained athletes.

Diagnosis typically involves an electrocardiogram (ECG) to record the heart's electrical activity. Further testing may include a Holter monitor, which records heart rhythm over an extended period, or an event monitor for intermittent symptoms. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the bradyarrhythmia and the presence of symptoms. In cases where the slow heart rate causes significant symptoms or poses a risk, a pacemaker may be implanted to help regulate the heart rhythm.