Final answer:
Symptomatic bradycardia includes symptoms like weakness, fatigue, and dizziness, and may require a pacemaker if severe. Causes vary from SA or AV node problems to thyroid pathologies and treatment is based on the underlying cause.
Step-by-step explanation:
Symptoms that indicate symptomatic bradycardia occur when the heart is not providing sufficient oxygenated blood to the tissues due to a resting heart rate (HR) dropping below 60 beats per minute (bpm). These symptoms may include weakness, fatigue, dizziness, fainting, chest discomfort, palpitations, or respiratory distress. While asymptomatic bradycardia is not considered significant, the presence of these symptoms, particularly with HRs lower than 50 bpm, is indicative of declining cardiac output requiring further medical evaluation. In some cases, the condition is severe enough to require the installation of a pacemaker. Possible causes of bradycardia include issues with the sinoatrial (SA) or atrioventricular (AV) nodes, ischemia to the heart muscle, metabolic disorders, thyroid pathologies, electrolyte imbalances, and the over-prescription of beta blocker drugs among others. Treatment strategies focus on addressing the underlying cause, which may include medications or supplemental oxygen.