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bradycardia pacemaker

i know a person with asymptomatic bradycardia about 50 bpm initially now his heart rate has somewhat decreased by 5 beats now his heart rate is 45bpm what are the ways to treat him. is pacemaker is the only way . if so how long can a person live with pacemaker please answer me

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Permalink Reply by Noela Anne Roberts on August 22, 2013 at 4:40pm

Bradycardia can be found in fit young adults who are athletes. Both of my sons who are in their 40's are National masters Cycling champions and have pulse rates below 50.

However there's a number of scenarios to consider so it is best to check out the cause...Here are a few possibilities. I hope a cardiologist will answer your Question in more detail for you.

Possibilities to consider

Changes in the heart that are the result of aging.
Diseases that damage the heart's electrical system. These include coronary artery disease, heart attack, and infections such as endocarditis and myocarditis.
Conditions that can slow electrical impulses through the heart. Examples include having a low thyroid level (hypothyroidism) or an electrolyte imbalance, such as too much potassium in the blood.
Some medicines for treating heart problems or high blood pressure, such as beta-blockers, antiarrhythmics, and digoxin.

Treatment

How is it treated?

How bradycardia is treated depends on what is causing it. Treatment also depends on the symptoms. If bradycardia does not cause symptoms, it usually is not treated.

If damage to the heart?s electrical system causes your heart to beat too slowly, you will probably need to have a pacemaker. A pacemaker is a device placed under your skin that helps correct the slow heart rate. People older than 65 are most likely to have a type of bradycardia that requires a pacemaker.
If another medical problem, such as hypothyroidism or an electrolyte imbalance, is causing a slow heart rate, treating that problem may cure the bradycardia.
If a medicine is causing your heart to beat too slowly, your doctor may adjust the dose or prescribe a different medicine. If you cannot stop taking that medicine, you may need a pacemaker.

The goal of treatment is to raise your heart rate so your body gets the blood it needs. If severe bradycardia is not treated, it can lead to serious problems. These may include fainting and injuries from fainting, as well as seizures or even death