Final answer:
Bradycardia is defined as a slower than normal heart rate, when the resting rate is below 60 bpm. It can have internal or external causes, and treatment is driven by identifying and addressing these causes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Bradycardia is defined as b. A slower than normal heart rate. Specifically, it refers to a condition where the resting heart rate drops below 60 beats per minute (bpm) in an adult. This contrasts with tachycardia, where the resting heart rate exceeds 100 bpm. While bradycardia can be normal in trained athletes and asymptomatic individuals, it may become clinically significant if symptoms like weakness, fatigue, dizziness, or chest discomfort are present, indicating insufficient oxygenation of the body's tissues.
In terms of management, treating bradycardia involves identifying and addressing the underlying causes, which can be related to issues within the heart like SA or AV node abnormalities, or external factors such as metabolic disorders or medication effects. In serious cases, a pacemaker may be required to maintain a normal heart rhythm and ensure proper heart function.