Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Slow Heartbeat Effects

Bradycardia can cause chest and lung pain.


According to The University of Illinois Medical Center, a slow heartbeat, technically known as bradycardia, is classified as a resting heart rate that is below 60 beats per minute. Bradycardia can be caused by a number of issues, according to WedMD, including aging, drug use, serious head injury and electrolyte imbalances. Bradycardia is not the only cause of a low heart rate; it is possible with intense cardiovascular exercise to lower your heart rate as a result of strengthening the heart muscle.


Chest Pain


Chest pain is a common effect caused by a slow heartbeat, states MayoClinic.com. According to The University of Illinois Medical Center, chest pain is defined as a tight, squeezing pain in the area where the heart and lungs are located. Chest pain might be experienced at random or it can be aggravated by strenuous physical activity. The cause of this chest pain is because the heart is not receiving sufficient oxygen levels.








Fainting


According to WebMD, fainting can be caused by bradycardia. Fainting is caused when the slow heart rate causes the blood pressure to drop. This sudden lack of oxygen to the brain causes the body to faint. A slow heart rate is certainly not the only cause of fainting; if this is experienced see a doctor to be diagnosed.


Dizziness and Lightheadedness


Dizziness and lightheadedness are common signs of a slow heartbeat. This is caused by dropping blood pressure and lack of oxygen to the heart and brain. Dizziness and lightheadedness is commonly felt right before fainting. According to The University of Illinois Medical Center, if you feel either of these symptoms, stop what you're doing and sit down immediately. If you commonly experience these symptoms, speak with a health-care professional for proper diagnosis.


Difficulty Exercising


According to WebMD, a slow heart rate can cause difficulty or the feeling of weakness during exercise or strenuous activities. This is because the heart cannot supply the muscles with enough oxygen to support the activity that you are attempting to perform. When this happens, do not press harder through the activity; rather, sit down and allow your body to rest. Pushing your body harder during strenuous activities if you feel weakened can cause further symptoms, such as dizziness and fainting.

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