The heart rate normally increases when you exert yourself during an exercise session. Once you rule out a malfunctioning heart rate monitor, you will need to schedule a doctor's visit to determine the cause of a heart rate drop. The potential causes range from mild conditions that do not require treatment to more serious heart problems which might require surgery and medication.
Vasovagal Syncope
This condition -- the most common cause of fainting, according to MayoClinic.com -- occurs when your body decreases the blood flow to your brain. It can happen as a reaction to an extreme emotional trigger, such as the sight of blood, or as a response to hyperventilating or over-breathing during your exercise session. Bleeding or dehydration can decrease your blood volume and cause vasovagal syncope. Blood pressure problems and heart abnormalities can also lead to episodes of fainting. Although the condition usually does not pose a significant risk to your health, see your doctor to rule out any serious underlying conditions.
Bradycardia
Doctors consider a heart rate of less than 60 beats-per-minute as bradycardia. Intense exercise might cause untreated bradycardia to get worse, which can lead to heart rate drops. Other symptoms include fainting, dizziness, fatigue and lightheadedness. Metabolic problems such as hypothermia can cause bradycardia, but it most often results from underlying heart conditions or heart disease. If left untreated, bradycardia can lead to heart failure, high blood pressure and chest pain. Depending upon its severity, the condition might only require careful monitoring, not treatment. Medical treatment options include medications and an artificial pacemaker.
Orthostatic Hypotension
Dizziness and a lowered heart rate when you stand up after sitting or lying down during your workout might be due to orthostatic hypotension. This might happen when you work on stretching or yoga poses on a mat. The condition usually clears up within a few seconds to minutes. Although orthostatic hypotension is usually harmless and temporary, it can indicate more serious health conditions such as diabetes or heart problems. If it occurs regularly during your workout, discuss the lightheadedness with your doctor.
Prevention
Stay well hydrated before, during and after your workout to help prevent symptoms of low blood pressure. Do not include exercises that require you to bend from the waist in your workout. Compression stockings might help reduce the pooling of blood in your legs that can contribute to orthostatic hypotension. When changing positions from lying down to sitting up, sit on your mat for a minute or two before standing up.
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