How is bradycardia treated?
When it comes to treating bradycardia, the course of action will depend on the underlying cause of the symptoms. If you are not experiencing any symptoms, treatment may not be necessary. However, if hypothyroidism is the culprit behind your slow heart rate, adjustments to your medication may be required.
If you are currently taking medication for high blood pressure or a heart condition, your doctor may need to modify your dosage or prescribe a different medication altogether.
In cases where the heart’s electrical system is damaged, the standard treatment option is to implant a pacemaker. This small device is surgically placed under the skin and is designed to correct a slow heart rate.
A pacemaker consists of three components: the pacemaker itself, a pacing lead, and a programmer. The pacemaker, which is a compact metal case containing electronic circuitry and a battery, is implanted inside the body. The pacing lead, a wire that carries electrical impulses from the pacemaker to the heart, is also placed internally. Surgeons typically position these two elements on the right or left side of the chest or beneath the collarbone.
The pacemaker constantly monitors the heart’s rhythm. If it detects a slow heart rate, it sends out electronic signals to correct it. The programmer, however, is an external device that does not go inside the body. Doctors or nurses use it to check on the pacemaker’s status and can make necessary adjustments to its settings using a special computer.
What is the purpose of treatment for bradycardia?
The primary objective of treating bradycardia is to restore the heart rate to a normal level. By increasing the heart rate, the body can receive an adequate supply of oxygenated blood. Failing to treat severe bradycardia can lead to serious complications. Fainting episodes can occur, resulting in potential injuries. In some cases, seizures may also manifest, and in the most severe instances, bradycardia can even be fatal.