Bradycardia facts for kids
Bradycardia (say: bray-dee-KAR-dee-uh) is when your heart beats slower than it should. For grown-ups, a heart rate under 60 beats per minute (bpm) when resting is called bradycardia. It is a type of cardiac arrhythmia, which means an irregular heartbeat.
There are different kinds of bradycardia. Some happen because of problems with the heart itself. Other times, certain medicines or substances can cause it.
How Does Bradycardia Affect You?
The way bradycardia affects someone depends on how slow their heart rate is. It also depends on what kind of heart problem might be causing it. For many people, a slow heart rate is not a big deal. It might not cause any problems at all.
However, bradycardia can become serious. If the heart beats too slowly, it might not pump enough blood and oxygen to the body. Every part of your body needs blood and oxygen to work. If your body does not get enough, it can cause damage to organs. It can even harm the brain. In very serious cases, it could lead to death.
What Causes Bradycardia?
- Problems with the heart's electrical system: Your heart has a special electrical system. This system sends signals that tell your heart when to beat. The heart has two upper chambers called atria. Special parts in the right atrium start these electrical signals. These signals travel through your heart in a certain path. This makes your heart squeeze and pump blood. If these signals do not start or travel correctly, your heart will not beat as it should.
- Certain medicines: Some medicines can slow down your heart rate. For example, medicines called beta blockers can do this.
- Other substances: Some substances can also make your heart beat slower.
See also
In Spanish: Bradicardia para niños
