What could be the reason for a 15-year-old child having a slow heart rate?

Bradycardia refers to a slow heart rate. In a 15-year-old child, bradycardia may be caused by factors such as medication effects, intra-atrial conduction block, hypothyroidism, sick sinus syndrome, or coronary atherosclerotic heart disease. Depending on the underlying cause, targeted treatment should be conducted under a doctor's guidance. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and treat any discomfort symptoms early. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Medication effects: Certain medications may affect cardiac electrical activity as a side effect, leading to the aforementioned issues, possibly accompanied by fatigue and weakness. It is advised to adjust the dosage or switch to alternative medications under medical supervision.

2. Intra-atrial conduction block: Conduction blocks may prevent normal transmission of electrical signals in the heart, resulting in bradycardia, as well as symptoms like fatigue and dizziness. Follow your doctor’s instructions when using medications such as amlodipine and atorvastatin calcium tablets, bisoprolol fumarate tablets, or aspirin tablets. In severe cases, a cardiac pacemaker may be required.

3. Hypothyroidism: Reduced secretion of thyroid hormones leads to a lower metabolic rate, which can cause bradycardia, often accompanied by weight gain, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. Prompt medical consultation is recommended. Medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, hydrocortisone tablets, or liothyronine may be prescribed.

4. Sick sinus syndrome: The sinoatrial (SA) node acts as the heart's natural pacemaker, regulating heart rhythm. When the SA node malfunctions, it may lead to bradycardia, along with symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and fainting. In severe cases, timely implantation of a cardiac pacemaker at a qualified hospital may be necessary to maintain a normal heart rate.

5. Coronary atherosclerotic heart disease: This condition can impair brain function due to reduced cerebral blood flow and insufficient cardiac pumping, thereby causing bradycardia, often accompanied by shortness of breath and sweating. Medications such as simvastatin dispersible tablets, atorvastatin calcium tablets, and bisoprolol fumarate tablets may be used as directed by a physician to alleviate symptoms.

All cases of abnormal heart rate should be evaluated by a qualified physician. If you notice any irregularities in a child’s heart rate, prompt medical consultation is advised to obtain an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.