Bradycardia
Bradycardia is a slow or irregular heart rhythm, usually fewer than 60 beats per minute. At this rate, the heart may not be able to pump enough oxygen-rich blood to your body during normal activity or exercise. As a result, you may feel dizzy or have chronic lack of energy, shortness of breath, or even fainting spells.
Your risk of developing an abnormally slow heart rate (bradycardia) is greater if you:
- Have certain heart conditions
- Are taking certain medications
- Are age 65 or older
- Have recently had heart surgery
AV block (atrioventricular block)
AV block is a type of irregular heart rhythm in which the electrical signals between the chambers of the heart (the atria and the ventricles) are impaired. This prevents the heart from contracting and pumping blood throughout your body. You may feel your heart skip a beat, as well as lack of energy, chest pain, and trouble breathing.
You may be more likely to develop AV block if you:
- Had a recent heart attack
- Are taking certain medications
- Had a recent illness, such as rheumatic fever or lupus
- Have certain heart conditions
Related pages
Pace of Mind is a Medtronic educational initiative about new leadless pacing options for patients.