Customer question:
Is a low heart rate below 40 normal for an adult? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
A heart rate below 40 beats per minute in adults is usually considered low and may indicate bradycardia. Bradycardia is a slow heart rate that can have many causes. Some people, especially athletes or very physically active individuals, may have a lower heart rate, which may be expected in their case. However, for most adults, a heart rate below 40 beats per minute may be abnormal and should be checked by a doctor.
Bradycardia can be caused by various causes, including:
- Sports activity: Athletes, especially those involved in endurance sports, may have a lower heart rate, which is the body's adaptation to regular, intense exercise.
- Heredity: some family lines may have lower heart rates.
- Heart diseases: certain heart diseases, such as conduction disorders or heart valve defects, can cause bradycardia.
- Thyroid abnormalities: Hypothyroidism can cause a decrease in heart rate.
- Effect of drugs: certain drugs, such as beta-blockers or antiarrhythmics, can reduce the heart rate.
Interesting reading: What is an average heart rate?
Interesting reading: Tachycardia
