12.4
Decreased pulse rate
Bradycardia is the medical term for decreased heart rate. It occurs when the sinus node produces an impulse rate slower than normal.
An adult is considered to have bradycardia when the pulse rate decreases to 60 beats or less per minute.
A bradycardia episode can reduce the oxygen supply to organs and tissues, causing the heart to insufficiently pump blood to the brain and other body parts.
Bradycardia may not always have symptoms or complications, but it can lead to stroke or even cardiac failure if left untreated.
The signs and symptoms of bradycardia include tiredness during physical activity, chest pain, lightheadedness, confusion, and shortness of breath.
Also, bradycardia is more likely to occur in old age and individuals with a history of high blood pressure, or an underactive thyroid gland.
Sleep apnea, low body temperature, poor oxygenation, certain medications like calcium channel blockers, and exercise can cause bradycardia.
These factors ultimately affect the heart rhythm resulting in arrhythmias.
Bradycardia is a medical condition in which the heart rate is slower than normal. It occurs when the heart's natural pacemaker, the sinus node, generates slower electrical impulses than the standard rhythm. In adults, bradycardia is diagnosed when the pulse rate falls below 60 beats per minute, indicating a deviation from the normal heart rate range.
There are specific risk factors that can elevate the likelihood of developing bradycardia. Advanced age is a significant factor, with bradycardia being more common in older individuals. Those with a history of high blood pressure or an underactive thyroid gland also have an increased susceptibility to this condition.
Various underlying factors can trigger bradycardia, including sleep apnea, low body temperature, poor oxygenation, pain, and certain medications such as calcium channel blockers. Vigorous physical exercise can also induce bradycardia, especially in well-conditioned athletes.
The impact of these contributing factors extends beyond bradycardia, influencing the heart's rhythm and potentially leading to arrhythmias. Arrhythmias, characterized by irregular heartbeats, can pose additional health risks and complications. As such, a comprehensive evaluation by healthcare professionals is essential for individuals experiencing symptoms or possessing risk factors.
The management of bradycardia focuses on identifying and addressing underlying causes. It may involve adjusting medications, managing medical conditions, and making lifestyle modifications such as exercise recommendations and avoiding triggers.
In severe cases, pacemaker implantation regulates the heart's rhythm. Regular monitoring through follow-up appointments and Holter monitoring is crucial to ensure the effectiveness of interventions.
Patient education is vital in recognizing symptoms and adhering to medical advice. Emphasizing individualized care and fostering effective communication between patients and care providers are essential for successful bradycardia management.
Bradycardia is the medical term for decreased heart rate. It occurs when the sinus node produces an impulse rate slower than normal.
An adult is considered to have bradycardia when the pulse rate decreases to 60 beats or less per minute.
A bradycardia episode can reduce the oxygen supply to organs and tissues, causing the heart to insufficiently pump blood to the brain and other body parts.
Bradycardia may not always have symptoms or complications, but it can lead to stroke or even cardiac failure if left untreated.
The signs and symptoms of bradycardia include tiredness during physical activity, chest pain, lightheadedness, confusion, and shortness of breath.
Also, bradycardia is more likely to occur in old age and individuals with a history of high blood pressure, or an underactive thyroid gland.
Sleep apnea, low body temperature, poor oxygenation, certain medications like calcium channel blockers, and exercise can cause bradycardia.
These factors ultimately affect the heart rhythm resulting in arrhythmias.
From Chapter 12:
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12.4 : Decreased pulse rate
Vital Signs: Pulse
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12.1 : Pulse
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12.2 : Regulation of Pulse
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12.3 : Increased pulse rate
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12.5 : Pulse amplitude and quality
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12.6 : Pulse rhythm
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12.7 : Pulse Assessment Sites
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12.8 : Factors Influencing Heart Rate
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12.9 : Assessment of apical pulse
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12.10 : Assessment of radial pulse
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12.11 : Assessment of apical radial pulse
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12.12 : Special considerations while measuring pulse
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