Final answer:
For an adult, a resting heart rate below 60 beats per minute is considered bradycardia. If symptoms are present, medical attention should be sought to determine the cause of the slow heart rate and appropriate treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
For an adult, a resting heart rate below 60 beats per minute is considered bradycardia. In some cases, bradycardia may not be clinically significant if the individual is not experiencing any other symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, dizziness, fainting, chest discomfort, palpitations, or respiratory distress. However, if these symptoms are present, it may indicate that the heart is not providing sufficient oxygenated blood to the tissues.
There are various causes of bradycardia, including abnormalities in the SA or AV node, ischemia to the heart muscle, diseases of the heart vessels or valves, metabolic disorders, pathologies of the endocrine system, electrolyte imbalances, neurological disorders, autoimmune pathologies, over-prescription of beta blocker drugs, recreational drug use, or prolonged bed rest.
Treatment for bradycardia depends on identifying the underlying cause and may involve the use of a pacemaker or addressing the specific condition or imbalance responsible for the slow heart rate. If the condition is inherited or severe, a pacemaker may be necessary to regulate the heart rate.