Decreased heart rate, also referred to as slowed or reduced heart rate, is a rate that is lower than normal. Adults have a normal resting heart rate of about 60 to 100 beats per minute, according to Edward R. Laskowski, M.D., of the Mayo Clinic. Your heart rate is influenced by a variety of factors and situations, such as fitness level, body position, body size, level of activity, air temperature, emotions and medications. If your heart rate is consistently below 60 beats per minute, consult your physician.
Medications
Taking certain medications can cause a decreased heart rate. Beta-blockers are commonly used to treat chest pain, migraines and high blood pressure. They may decrease exercise heart rate. Certain calcium channel blockers, a type of medication used to treat chest pain, arrhythmias or high blood pressure, may decrease heart rate, according to Illinois State University. Other medications that may decrease heart rate include digitalis and amiodarone.
Hypothyroidism
Often called underactive thyroid, hypothyroidism occurs when there is not enough thyroid hormone being made by the thyroid gland. Inflammation of this gland is the most common cause. When the gland is inflamed, the cells become damaged, resulting in reduced function. In addition to decreased heart rate, you may also experience sensitivity to cold, depression, weakness, dry skin or paleness, fatigue, unintentional weight gain or joint and muscle pain, according to MedlinePlus. This condition is typically treated by replacing the thyroid hormone. You will often take a medication, such as levothyroxine, for the rest of your life.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea is characterized by periods of pauses of breathing during sleep. This occurs due to the airway being blocked, floppy or narrowed, according to MedlinePlus. In addition to decreased heart rate, you may experience excessive daytime sleepiness, periods of breathing cessation when sleeping, sore throat or dry mouth when you wake up, frequent nighttime urination, loud snoring, waking up often during sleep with shortness of breath, morning headache and trouble staying asleep, according to the Mayo Clinic. Treatment is focused on keeping your airways open when you are sleeping so you do not experience cessation of breathing. A CPAP, or continuous positive airway pressure, machine is the most common method of treatment, followed by lifestyle changes, such as losing weight if necessary, not sleeping on your back and not taking sedatives or drinking alcohol before you go to bed.
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