Learn more about a ‘Bradycardia’ EKG Result

Bradycardia is based on the words Brady meaning slow and Cardia meaning heart.

Bradycardia is a heart rate that’s less than 50 beats per minute. Specifically, for Kardia(tm), Instant Analysis Bradycardia indicates a mild form of bradycardia not due to atrial fibrillation, between 40 to 50 beats per minute. The normal range for heart rate depends on your age and physical condition; for example, a heart rate less than 50 beats per minute can be normal in healthy adults and in athletes, and during sleep. While bradycardia can be normal, it can also be caused by thyroid disease, sleep apnea, certain medications, or damage to the heart tissue from heart disease or from the aging process. When the heart beats too slowly, you may have no symptoms or you may experience dizziness, chest pain or pressure*, lack of energy, or shortness of breath. The treatment for bradycardia depends on what is causing the slow heart rate, as well as your symptoms. Mild bradycardia with no symptoms usually requires no treatment. Bradycardia may be treated with medications, or by adjusting current medications. For severe bradycardia, a pacemaker may be recommended, which is a small device implanted under the skin that can speed up the heart rate as needed.

*Chest pain or pressure is a medical emergency. Contact a physician or emergency services if you have questions or are concerned about any symptoms.