How Do I Choose the Best Bradycardia Treatment?

An unusually slow heartbeat, due to an arrhythmia, is referred to as bradycardia. Sometimes, this condition requires no medical intervention. Otherwise, bradycardia treatment will often depend on the underlying cause. Some patients may take medications, others will be advised to implement certain lifestyle changes, while other patients may require an implanted pacemaker to help maintain a normal heartbeat.

The normal range for a heartbeat is between 60 to 100 beats per minute; however, some people who are physically fit may have a reduced resting heartbeat. Patients who have a heartbeat of less than 60 beats per minute are considered to have bradycardia, but if they have no symptoms, they may not require treatment. The typical symptoms of bradycardia include fainting, dizziness, and weakness, along with fatigue. Patients may also have memory problems or confusion, chest pains, and shortness of breath. They may also become abnormally fatigued while exercising.

Those who do experience symptoms will likely require bradycardia treatment. In some cases, a medication that the person is already taking may be the culprit. The doctor will need to evaluate the patient's medical history to determine if he can safely switch to another drug that will not cause bradycardia.

Sometimes, a separate medical condition may be causing a slow heartbeat. Patients with obstructive sleep apnea may be prescribed a special breathing machine to use at night which can help return the heartbeat to a normal range. The doctor may also diagnose the patient with hypothyroidism, in which case, bradycardia treatment will likely consist of medications to treat this condition.

Frequently, a slow heartbeat is caused by another heart condition, and the patient will be advised to make certain lifestyle changes to support his heart health. A diet low in fat and sodium is advised to help lower the patient's blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Those who smoke will be encouraged to quit. Exercising regularly under a doctor's supervision should also be part of a comprehensive bradycardia treatment plan.

Some people may also benefit from medications called anti-arrhythmic drugs. Examples of these medications include flecainide, sotalol, and amiodarone. Patients should be aware that these drugs may sometimes cause the arrhythmia to become worse. This type of bradycardia treatment may also result in side effects like fainting, blurred vision, and loss of appetite.

In certain cases, adequate bradycardia treatment may also include having a pacemaker implanted. The purpose of a pacemaker is to emit electrical impulses when the heart beats too slowly or too rapidly. This regulates the heartbeat, so that it stays within the normal range.