What Causes Low Heart Rate?

Low heart rate, also known as bradycardia, is a condition in which the heart beats at a rate lower than normal. It is usually defined as any heart rate lower than 60 beats per minute, though the exact value varies according to age and other factors. A low heart rate can be caused by a variety of factors.

Health Conditions That Contribute To Low Heart Rate

There are several health conditions that can cause a low heart rate, such as certain types of heart disease, hypothyroidism, and certain medications. Heart disease, such as long QT syndrome or heart block, can interfere with the transmission of electrical signals from the heart and cause the heart to beat at a slow rate. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the body doesn’t produce enough of the hormone thyroxine. This can lead to the heart slowing down. Certain medications such as beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and digoxin can also slow the heart rate.

Lifestyle Choices

The lifestyle choices we make can also contribute to a low heart rate. Drugs such as alcohol, cocaine and other stimulants can slow the heart rate. Certain herbs and supplements can have an effect as well. Caffeine, although it is a stimulant, can also slow the heart rate. Exercise can also lead to a lower than normal heart rate, as the body adapts to the increased physical activity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several factors that may contribute to a low heart rate, such as health conditions, medications and lifestyle choices. If you think you may have a low heart rate, it is important to speak to your doctor to determine the cause and discuss possible treatments.