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Bradycardia is a condition in which the heart beats slower than normal, typically fewer than 60 beats per minute in adults. While it might be harmless or even normal in healthy individuals (like athletes), it can also indicate an underlying health issue, especially if it's causing symptoms. It is important to consult the best cardiologist in Gurugram to determine whether the condition requires medical intervention. This blog is a compilation of all the facts about this medical condition, including: causes, symptoms, treatment and more.
Synopsis
Causes of Bradycardia
Bradycardia can result from a variety of medical conditions and external factors:
1. Heart-Related Causes
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Sick sinus syndrome (malfunction in the heart’s natural pacemaker)
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Heart block (electrical signals are delayed or blocked)
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Previous heart attack or heart disease
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Congenital heart defects
2. Metabolic and Other Medical Conditions
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Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
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Electrolyte imbalances (like potassium or calcium)
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Sleep apnea
3. Medications
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Beta-blockers
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Calcium channel blockers
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Antiarrhythmic drugs
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Sedatives or opioids
4. Other Factors
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Ageing (natural changes in the heart's conduction system)
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Infections (e.g., Lyme disease or myocarditis)
Symptoms of Bradycardia
Some people may not notice any symptoms, especially if they are otherwise healthy. But when symptoms occur, they can include:
Treatment of Bradycardia
Treatment depends on the cause, severity, and presence of symptoms.
1. Lifestyle and Monitoring
If it's not causing symptoms and the person is healthy (e.g., athletes), no treatment may be needed. Monitoring may be enough in some mild cases.
2. Treating Underlying Causes
Adjust or stop medications that may be slowing the heart. Manage conditions like hypothyroidism or sleep apnea.
3. Medications
Temporary meds may be used to increase heart rate if urgently needed (like atropine in emergencies).
4. Pacemaker
For more severe or persistent cases, especially due to electrical conduction issues, a permanent pacemaker may be implanted to maintain a regular heart rhythm.
Lifestyle Changes for Managing Bradycardia
1. Monitor Heart Rate Regularly
Use a fitness tracker, smartwatch, or manually check your pulse. Keep a log to track changes and share with your doctor.
2. Stay Active—but Smartly
Engage in moderate exercise, like walking, swimming, or yoga, to improve overall heart health. Avoid overexertion—stop if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or short of breath. Consult the best cardiologist about safe activity levels, especially if you already have a pacemaker or symptoms.
3. Avoid Substances That Can Slow the Heart
Limit alcohol and caffeine (both can affect heart rhythm in some people). Quit smoking—nicotine can affect blood vessels and heart rhythm. Avoid recreational drugs, especially stimulants or depressants that alter heart rate.
4. Review and Adjust Medications
Work with your doctor to review any meds that might contribute to bradycardia (like beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers). Never stop medications abruptly—always consult your cardiologist.
5. Manage Stress
Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation, breathing exercises, as chronic stress can impact your nervous system and indirectly affect your heart rhythm.
6. Get Quality Sleep
Prioritise 7–9 hours of sleep per night. Treat underlying sleep apnea, which can contribute to bradycardia.
7. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
Consume fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins (fish, legumes), and healthy fats (like olive oil, nuts, avocados). It is advised to limit processed foods, excessive salt, and saturated fats.
8. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can lower blood pressure and affect heart rate.
Conclusion
Bradycardia may sound alarming, but understanding it is the first step toward managing it effectively. While a slower heart rate isn’t always a cause for concern, especially in healthy, active individuals, it’s important to recognise the symptoms and seek medical advice when needed. With proper diagnosis, lifestyle adjustments, and treatment when necessary, most people with bradycardia can lead healthy, active lives. Whether it’s through monitoring your heart rate, managing underlying conditions, or considering medical interventions like a pacemaker, taking proactive steps can make a significant difference. Stay informed, listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to consult your doctor if you notice anything unusual.
FAQ's
Bradycardia is not always dangerous. In healthy individuals, especially young adults or athletes, a slow heart rate may be normal and not cause any issues. However, if it causes symptoms like dizziness, fainting, or fatigue, or is due to an underlying heart condition, it may require treatment.
Early signs include:
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Persistent tiredness
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Lightheadedness or dizziness
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Shortness of breath
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Fainting or blackouts
If you notice these, especially with a slow pulse, consult a cardiologist for evaluation.
There’s no proven Ayurvedic cure for bradycardia, but lifestyle support (like stress reduction, yoga, and a heart-healthy diet) can be beneficial. Always consult both your cardiologist and Ayurvedic practitioner before mixing treatments, especially if you’re on heart medications.
Yes, pacemaker implantation is a well-established and widely performed procedure in India. It’s generally safe and available in most multispeciality hospitals. The cost varies by city and hospital, but government schemes like Ayushman Bharat or state health cards may cover it in some cases.
It depends on the underlying cause:
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If due to medications, changing the dosage may help.
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If caused by hypothyroidism or sleep apnea, treating those conditions may reverse the bradycardia.
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If it's due to a heart block or electrical issues, a pacemaker may be necessary.
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