What are the treatment methods for bradycardia?
My heart rate is not fast; in fact, it tends to be slow. I would like to ask about the treatment options for bradycardia.
Doctor's answer (1)
Bradycardia, also known as sinus bradycardia, generally refers to a heart rate below 60 beats per minute. The following are some common treatment approaches:
1. Observation and lifestyle modifications: If the patient does not experience symptoms, doctors may recommend regular monitoring of heart rate and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, balanced diet, and adequate sleep.
2. Medication: For symptomatic bradycardia, doctors may prescribe certain medications, such as atropine, to increase heart rate. In some cases, beta-adrenergic agonists may be used for specific types of bradycardia, but they must be used cautiously as they may worsen symptoms.
3. Pacemaker implantation: If medication is ineffective or not suitable, a cardiac pacemaker may need to be implanted. A pacemaker regulates heartbeat through electrical impulses, ensuring the heart maintains an appropriate rate.
4. Electrophysiological study and radiofrequency ablation: For certain types of bradycardia caused by abnormal heart rhythms, an electrophysiological study may be required to identify the abnormal circuitry, followed by the use of radiofrequency ablation to eliminate the abnormal pathways causing bradycardia.
