Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is typically defined as a pulse rate of fewer than 60 beats per minute (BPM). We get concerned when a patient with bradycardia has symptoms that might be caused by the slow pulse rate, or, the patient has symptoms that are caused by the same thing that is causing the bradycardia. Either way, the patient is said to have symptomatic bradycardia. Symptoms that accompany bradycardia and are considered significant include:
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Syncope
- Confusion
Some folks, particularly endurance athletes, can have resting heart rates that are slower than 60 BPM and while that is technically bradycardia, it comes without symptoms (asymptomatic).