Low heart rate, also known as bradycardia, may be caused by the following reasons:
1. Physiological factors: Athletes or people who engage in high-intensity physical activity for a long time often have a lower basal heart rate than the general population due to their strong cardiovascular function. During sleep or when the ambient temperature is low, the human body naturally lowers its heart rate in order to save energy.
2. Drug effects: Certain drugs, such as beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, etc., are commonly used to treat diseases such as hypertension and angina, and have the effect of lowering heart rate. If the patient does not follow the doctor's advice or ingests excessively, it may lead to a low heart rate.
3. Disease factors: Cardiac diseases such as hypothyroidism leading to decreased heart function, heart valve disease, myocardial infarction, heart failure, as well as dysfunction of the sinoatrial node, can all cause bradycardia. Systemic diseases such as typhoid influenza, obstructive jaundice, elevated intracranial pressure, and hypertension may also lead to sinus bradycardia. Electrolyte imbalance: Hyperkalemia can inhibit the electrical activity of myocardial cells, leading to a decrease in heart rate; Disruption of acid-base balance, such as alkalosis, may also affect the cardiac conduction system and cause bradycardia. Chronic arrhythmia: Slow arrhythmia directly affects the electrical conduction and contraction function of the heart, leading to a significant decrease in heart rate and even endangering life.
The above information is for reference only and does not constitute professional medical advice. If the heart rate continues to be low and accompanied by discomfort symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical attention in a timely manner, clarify the cause through professional examination, and take corresponding treatment measures.