The presence of a pulse rate below 40/minute

What is a slow heart rate below 40/minute?

A normal resting heart rate (HR) is normally between 60-100/minute. When TF falls below 60/minute, we speak professionally of so-called bradycardia. It can also occur in otherwise completely healthy people, e.g. during sleep. Significant bradycardia, in this case defined by a rate below 40/minute, can cause difficulties – weakness, inefficiency, dyspnea on exertion, dizziness to collapse, and must always be investigated.

What causes a slow heart rate below 40/minute?

A variety of causes can lead to a low heart rate. Examples include mineral disorders (mainly potassium), the effect of drugs that slow down the heart rate, insufficient thyroid function, acute myocardial infarction, but very often, especially in old age, it can be a degeneration of the transmission system in the heart, when electrical impulses are poorly formed or difficult to convert.

What are the risks of a slow heart rate below 40/minute?

With a slow heart rate, the heart as a pump does not have enough blood output to adequately supply the other organs in the body. Insufficient supply to the brain can lead to loss of consciousness. A significant slow rhythm disturbance can lead to heart pauses or complete cardiac arrest.

What is the treatment for a slow heart rate below 40/minute?

Any slow heart rate must be properly investigated by a doctor. It is determined what specific heart rhythm disorder was detected (from the ECG) and whether the cause of the slow pulse is only temporary (reversible) or permanent. In the second case, when the indication criteria are met, the patient is implanted with a pacemaker.

What can I do if I have a slow heart rate below 40/minute?

The finding of a slow heart rate should always be consulted early with the attending physician. He will determine what kind of heart rhythm disorder it is and suggest further solutions. If the slow pulse below 40/minute continues or the patient has subjective difficulties, he should be examined by a doctor without delay.