Low Heart Rate: When to Seek Medical Attention

Static heart rate of 38?

Hello, doctor! My heart rate has always been below 55, and I'm not an athlete and don't exercise often.
Over the past few weeks, my heart rate has dropped below 40 between midnight and 2 AM.
I often wake up at night with my heart racing.
A few weeks ago, I experienced sharp pain in my left chest, and I had pain in the left side of my neck and the back of my head.
I have fainted twice before; once was due to menstrual pain, and the recent time was after taking a laxative.
Both times, I felt like my heart was about to jump out of my chest, I was sweating profusely, and my vision went blank before I fainted.
So, I would like to know if my slow heart rate could be affecting my health.
I apologize for bothering you, thank you.

Amber, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/06

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, it's not the slow heart rate that affects your body when you're feeling unwell; rather, it is when the heart beats very forcefully.
It is recommended that you visit an outpatient clinic for further examination of the cause of your fainting.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2016/11/06

More Info

Understanding low heart rate, or bradycardia, is crucial, especially when accompanied by symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, or fainting. A resting heart rate below 60 beats per minute (bpm) is generally considered bradycardic, but for some individuals, particularly athletes, this may be normal. However, in your case, where you report a heart rate frequently dropping below 55 bpm and even reaching below 40 bpm during sleep, it raises concerns that warrant further investigation.

Your symptoms of left chest pain, pain in the back of your head and neck, and episodes of fainting are particularly concerning. These symptoms could indicate that your heart is not pumping effectively, which can lead to inadequate blood flow to vital organs. The fact that you have experienced fainting spells, especially in conjunction with a very low heart rate, suggests that your heart may not be able to meet your body’s demands, particularly during physical or emotional stress.

Bradycardia can be caused by various factors, including heart block, medication effects, or underlying health conditions such as hypothyroidism or electrolyte imbalances. Given your history of fainting and the associated symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare provider may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or a 24-hour Holter monitor, to assess your heart's rhythm over time and identify any underlying issues.

In addition to the heart rate concerns, the episodes of chest pain and the sensation of your heart racing upon waking could indicate an arrhythmia or other cardiac condition that needs to be evaluated. It is also important to consider lifestyle factors, such as stress, anxiety, and medication side effects, which can contribute to these symptoms. Since you mentioned taking medications for anxiety, it is worth discussing with your healthcare provider whether these could be influencing your heart rate and overall well-being.

In summary, while a low heart rate can be normal for some individuals, your specific symptoms and history suggest that you should seek medical evaluation. It is crucial to rule out any serious underlying conditions that could be affecting your heart's function. Your healthcare provider can help determine the appropriate course of action, which may include medication adjustments, lifestyle changes, or further testing to ensure your heart health is adequately managed. Please do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and personalized care.

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