Sinus Bradycardia
Sinus Bradycardia
Sinus bradycardia is a type of arrhythmia that causes an unusually slow heartbeat. It occurs when the sinus node, the area of the heart responsible for electrical impulses, functions abnormally. It can range in severity from barely noticeable to something that requires medical intervention. It can also be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition.
A normal resting heart rate for adults ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. If an adult's heart rate falls below 60 beats per minute, it is considered to be abnormal and could be classified as sinus bradycardia. In some cases, a healthy young adult may have a heart rate that falls in the range of 40 to 50 beats per minute (bradycardia), but an abnormal heart rate for older adults.
The most common symptom of sinus bradycardia is a feeling of lightheadedness or dizziness, especially when standing up after sitting or lying down.
Other symptoms of sinus bradycardia include:
- Fatigue
- Fainting
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Palpitations
- Clammy or pale skin
Possible causes of sinus bradycardia include:
- Certain medications, such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers
- Heart attack
- Ischemic heart disease
- Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
- Viral infection
- Sleep apnea
- Excessive alcohol use
- Dehydration
If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, you should talk to your doctor. They may perform a physical exam and order blood tests to confirm a diagnosis of sinus bradycardia. In some cases, your doctor may also order an electrocardiogram (ECG) to look for abnormalities on your heart's electrical activity. If the cause of your sinus bradycardia is unknown, they may refer you to a cardiologist for further evaluation.
Treatment for sinus bradycardia depends on the underlying cause. If it is caused by a medication, your doctor may recommend changing or adjusting the dose. If the cause is unknown, lifestyle modifications such as avoiding caffeine, cutting back on alcohol, and increasing your daily physical activity may be recommended. In some cases, your doctor may also recommend taking a pacemaker to help monitor and reset the heart rate.