Bradycardia

Overview

Mayo Clinic is internationally recognized for its expertise and experience in the treatment of bradycardia, a condition in which the heart beats abnormally slow. Many Mayo Clinic physicians are internationally known for their work in heart rhythm disorders.

Mayo Clinic has always ranked highly in cardiovascular practice (medical expertise in heart and lung care) in U.S. News & World Report's annual "America's Best Hospitals" edition.

Heart specialists and surgeons consult with patients to determine the most accurate diagnosis and the most effective treatment for each patient. Mayo Clinic is an international leader in implantable devices and uses the most advanced technology to treat bradycardia.

Diagnosis

For patients with bradycardia, the medical team at Mayo Clinic is led by electrophysiologists (cardiologists with specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of heart rhythm disorders). Diagnosis may include electrophysiologic testing to determine the cause and type of bradycardia. Read more about bradycardia diagnosis.

Treatment Options

A comprehensive diagnosis at Mayo Clinic will help physicians determine the most appropriate treatment for each patient. The Mayo Clinic Model of Care emphasizes an integrated, collaborative team approach to provide the most appropriate care for each patient. A team of highly specialized medical experts collaborates to determine the most accurate diagnosis and the most effective treatment for each patient.

The goal of bradycardia treatment is to restore the heart to its normal rhythm. Physicians conduct a thorough evaluation to identify the underlying cause of the abnormally slow heart rate. If the patient has no symptoms, medical treatment may not be necessary. In some cases, the bradycardia is caused by medication. If the medication can be safely stopped, the heart rhythm may return to normal.

Usually, the slow heart rhythm is related to underlying problems with the heart's pacemaker cells or conducting system. Thus, medications typically are not effective. Electrophysiologists can implant a pacemaker to help regulate the heart rate.

Follow-up care for patients is another essential component of Mayo Clinic's treatment plan. Read more about bradycardia treatment options.

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About Bradycardia

Bradycardia describes a heart rate that drops below 50 beats per minute, compared to a normal heartbeat rate of about 72.

Although a heart rate below 50 beats a minute while at rest is considered a bradycardia, a low resting heart rate doesn't always signal a problem. A person who is physically fit may have a heart capable of pumping an adequate supply of blood with fewer than 50 beats a minute at rest. This slower heart rate also normally occurs in many people during sleep.

Read more about bradycardia and other heart arrhythmias at MayoClinic.com.