[22M] Experiencing perceived bradycardia

Patient Description

A 22-year-old male reports difficulty in perceiving his heartbeat while manually controlling his breathing and nearing sleep. He has noticed that his heart rate feels unusually slow and has difficulty feeling his pulse on his chest, wrist, or neck. The onset of this perception coincided with a conscious effort to control his breathing as he was close to falling asleep.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, you might be experiencing:

  • Bradycardia: This is a slower than normal heart rate, typically less than 60 beats per minute. It can be a normal physiological response, especially in young, healthy individuals and athletes. However, it can also be a sign of a heart condition or a side effect of certain medications.

    • Treatment depends on the underlying cause. If it's a normal physiological response, no treatment is necessary. If it's due to a heart condition or medication, your doctor may adjust your treatment plan.

  • Anxiety or Panic Disorder: Anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including changes in heart rate and increased awareness of one's heartbeat. It's not uncommon for people to become hyper-aware of their bodily sensations during periods of high stress or anxiety.

    • Treatment typically involves a combination of therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication if necessary.

Please remember that this is not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and medical history.

What you can do

Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Try to relax and engage in calming activities, such as deep breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation. This can help manage symptoms of anxiety.
  2. Monitor your heart rate. If it consistently falls below 60 beats per minute, or if you experience symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, or fainting, seek medical attention.
  3. If you're taking any medications, check the side effects to see if they could be causing your slow heart rate. Do not stop taking your medication without consulting your doctor.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Fatigue or weakness that affects your ability to function
  • Confusion or difficulty concentrating

These could be signs of a serious heart condition.

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9 mo ago

People Also Ask

What is bradycardia and how can it affect my health?

Bradycardia is a condition where the heart rate is slower than normal, typically less than 60 beats per minute. It can be harmless in young, healthy individuals or athletes, but it can also indicate a heart condition or be a side effect of medication. If it causes symptoms like dizziness or fainting, medical evaluation is necessary.

Can anxiety cause changes in heart rate and how should it be managed?

Yes, anxiety can cause changes in heart rate and make you more aware of your heartbeat. Managing anxiety often involves therapy, lifestyle changes, and sometimes medication. Techniques like deep breathing, yoga, and meditation can help reduce anxiety symptoms.

What are the signs that a slow heart rate might be a serious condition?

Signs that a slow heart rate might be serious include chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, fatigue, and confusion. If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention as they could indicate a serious heart condition.

How can I safely monitor my heart rate at home?

To monitor your heart rate at home, you can use a heart rate monitor or a smartwatch with heart rate tracking capabilities. You can also manually check your pulse at your wrist or neck. If your heart rate consistently falls below 60 beats per minute and you have symptoms, consult a healthcare professional.

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