What could be the reason for the low heart rate at rest?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 19-year-old male, no known health problems. My only symptom is a slow resting heart rate. I have seen it as low as 45. I feel perfectly fine, no syncope or dizziness.

I am not an athlete, so I do not know why it is so low.

Is this cause for concern?
With a heart block, the heart rate does not increase with exercise, correct?
My heart rate is low at rest but increases as expected with exercise. Does this rule out a problem?
If I had clinical bradycardia, wouldn't I feel bad as well?

Please give your suggestions.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Normal heart rate should be between 60 to 100 beats per minute. You are having bradycardia. It can be idiopathic without any cause. But it is better to get physically examined, and if needed, an appropriate investigation can be planned.

Rule out hypothyroidism by serum TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) estimation.

Rule out any cardiac cause if present by EKG investigation. Check sodium, potassium, and calcium levels if needed. If no cause is found, then no need to worry. Consult a physician for examination.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.